Creating a “STEM for All” Environment

Abstract

In the fall of 2007, a growing number of groups throughout Ohio began to congregate around the idea of building a network of demonstration schools and projects that could influence college and career readiness for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This push was the result of both state and national initiatives in STEM education and school reform. At the national level was a growing concern over the diminished capacity of the United States to compete in the STEM global marketplace for educated citizenry and people choosing STEM careers (Business Roundtable, 2005; Committee on Science, Engineering and Public Policy [CSEPP], 2005; Dede et al., 2005). Within the state, there were multiple reports (e.g., CSEPP, 2005; Deloitte Consulting, 2005; SRI International, 2009) that indicated that the increased need for a STEM workforce was associated with the future well-being of the state.