US Education Department and NASA collaborate to promote after-school STEM programme, Know key details

In a groundbreaking partnership, the U.S. Department of Education and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) have teamed up to enhance after-school STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs for students across the country.

This collaboration, officially launched on 23 September 2024, at the Wheatley Education Campus in Washington, DC, is a pivotal programme introduced by Kris Brown, NASA’s Deputy Assistant Administrator for STEM Engagement, and Cindy Marten, Deputy Secretary of the US Department of Education.

“This partnership is unlocking endless opportunities for students to explore, innovate, and excel in STEM fields,” said Cindy Marten. As per NASA, the progamme aims to reach approximately 1,000 students in more than 60 sites across 10 states to join the program.

The 21st Century Community Learning Centers will play a pivotal role in this program. “The 21st Century Community Learning Centers will provide a unique opportunity to inspire students through hands-on learning and real-world problem solving”, said Kris Brown, NASA’s Deputy Assistant Administrator for STEM Engagement.

NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland will provide NASA-related content and academic projects for students, in-person staff training, continuous program support, and opportunities for students to engage with NASA scientists and engineers.

About NASA’s STEM Program

NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona participate in a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signing ceremony,  Image: NASA

In May 2023, NASA and the Education Department signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration between the two agencies and expand efforts to increase access to high-quality STEM and space education to students and schools across the nation.

In 2024, NASA Glenn signed a follow-on Space Act Agreement to support the 21st Century Community Learning Centers. The program, managed by the Education Department and funded by Congress, is the only federal funding source dedicated exclusively to after-school programs.

NASA's STEM program is organized into three categories: for students, for educators, and for colleges and universities, each tailored to specific age groups.

For students, the offerings include Space to Play! (Grades K-4), Out-of-this-World Stuff! (Grades 5-8), Experience NASA (Grades 9-12), and Explore Opportunities (college students).

For educators, NASA offers teaching resources designed for Grades K-4, Grades 5-8, and Grades 9-12, providing tools to enhance STEM learning in the classroom.

Also read: US Educational Stages Explained