Strategic Initiatives

Creating a cadre of STEM schools that are models of high-quality STEM instruction

• Governor’s Designated STEM School Program- The STEM Advisory Council, together with OSIT, developed the official Governor’s STEM School Designation based on national best practices to provide schools with a blueprint for integrating STEM into daily classroom instruction. Designation as a Governor's STEM School denotes that the school meets the highest standards of STEM instruction and is a model for schools around the state. For parents and the community, the designation also communicates the level of high-quality STEM education that can be expected at the school.

• STEM Leadership Academy- The Academy was created to increase the quality of STEM education throughout the State by providing consultation and professional development to leaders from aspiring STEM schools. During the five-day workshop taking place throughout the school year, schools will be guided through a process to create a strategic plan and school-specific roadmap for improving STEM education and receiving the Governor’s STEM School Designation. Schools will have the opportunity to apply for a grant from OSIT to support the implementation of their strategic plans.