The Midwest STEM Alliance has recruited 18 outstanding elementary science teachers
across three states to participate in the initiative: 6 from Iowa, 6 from Kansas, and 6
from Minnesota. Backed by a $5 million grant from the National Science Foundation
(NSF), this new project is led by Principal Investigator Dana Atwood-Blaine, PhD at the
University of Northern Iowa and is aimed at celebrating, resourcing, and strengthening
the work of rural elementary science educators who are making a lasting impact on
their students and communities.
Local educator Rachel Larsen, a PK-5 Instructional Coach at Griswold Elementary
School, was selected to join this prestigious group as a Corps member.
“What gives me hope for the future of STEM is seeing science become more of a
priority in schools and recognizing the important role it plays in students’ learning not
just in science but other core areas as well. Science provides students with
opportunities to build knowledge across many different areas while developing
curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving,” said Larsen.
The initiative officially kicked off this past June, when the Corps gathered in person at
the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls for a two-day Summer Institute focused
on collaboration, learning, and leadership development. As they build a strong
community of practice, these teacher leaders are creating new opportunities for their
students, inspiring their peers, and advancing STEM education throughout the Midwest.
To support their mission, Corps members receive an annual stipend for four years.
They are also provided with dedicated funding for science curriculum, supplies, and
materials to directly meet their classroom instructional needs. This March, the group
will travel to the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) conference in Boston,
MA, to learn the latest STEM teaching strategies and bring exciting, hands-on science
activities back to their classrooms.
Later this year, 60 additional teachers will be recruited to the Rural Cohort. By the third
year of the grant, the primary STEM Corps teachers will actively co-plan and co-lead
professional learning sessions for this expanding group. Ultimately, the project pairs
top science researchers with experienced veteran classroom teachers to enhance
elementary science education in rural areas.
By elevating science instruction that integrates both literacy and math, the Midwest
STEM Alliance will ensure rural educators receive the recognition, resources, and growth
opportunities they deserve, helping students thrive across subjects and building a
lasting foundation for rural science education.