S. 4030: Supporting After-School STEM Educators Act

This bill, titled the Supporting After-School STEM Educators Act, aims to enhance the quality of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education provided to students in after-school, summer, and other out-of-school time programs. The main components of the bill include the following:

Findings

The bill outlines several key findings that highlight the importance of STEM education and the need for improved support for educators in this field. These findings include:

• The workforce for after-school and out-of-school time programs, especially in STEM, is facing staffing shortages.
• STEM proficiency is crucial for the nation's economic competitiveness and technological innovation.
• Research indicates students are falling behind in STEM education, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic.
• After-school programs can play a significant role in engaging students in STEM, particularly for underrepresented groups.
• High-quality educators are essential for inspiring students in STEM fields.

Purposes

The bill aims to:

• Recognize the vital role of after-school and out-of-school time educators in STEM education.
• Support these educators through professional development opportunities and funding.

Definitions

The bill includes specific definitions for terms used throughout the document, such as:

• Intermediary: An entity that supports quality STEM programs.
• Out-of-school time: Programs for students outside formal school hours.
• Program provider: Nonprofit organizations that offer out-of-school time programs.
• STEM: Refers to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Professional Development Scholarship Program

The bill establishes a scholarship program for professional development, which will involve the following:

• The Secretary of Labor will award grants to intermediaries to support program providers in funding professional development for educators.
• Grants will be awarded for a period of five years, with a limit of one grant per state unless more funds become available.
• Preference may be given to intermediaries partnering with organizations that provide matching funds.
• Grant funds must be used for professional development, including on-site and off-site training, and associated operational costs.

Use of Grant Funds

Intermediaries receiving grants must:

• Make subgrants to program providers for professional development.
• Facilitate a peer support network among out-of-school STEM educators.
• Meet reporting requirements to demonstrate accountability.

Evaluation and Reporting

Program providers must evaluate their professional development activities annually and report on:

• Changes in educator confidence and effectiveness in STEM education.
• Impact on student engagement and satisfaction with STEM programs.

Intermediaries will also submit annual reports summarizing these evaluations to the Secretary.

Funding Authorization

The bill authorizes appropriations as necessary to fund its provisions.

Relevant Companies

None found.