GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn — Students across the country are working on projects to for the first-ever National STEM Challenge.
The initiative, launched by EXPLR, aims to challenge sixth- through 12th-graders to come up with new ideas, and awards the best ones with some pretty cool perks.
The challenge also sheds light on the importance of kids getting involved with STEM and how their innovation will drive our future.
Challenge participants will use the scientific method to develop STEM projects, that they hope will make a tangible impact and create positive change for people and the planet.
Entries will be accepted in six categories, including: Environmental Stewardship; Future Food; Health and Medicine; Powering the Planet; Space Innovation; and Tech for Good.
Co-founder of EXPLR Media, Minnesota's own Andrew Zimmern, said focusing on breaking down barriers is key for student success in STEM fields.
"STEM is everything, especially as our world progresses," Zimmern said. "I can't think of a better thing for students than to challenge them to research, design and propose practical ideas that address equitable and sustainable practice issues surrounding food production, distribution and consumption."
Zimmern said many student groups remain underexposed to and under-enrolled in STEM education. It's a reality that's reflected in nationwide STEM employment numbers, regarding the percentage of underrepresented racial, gender and ethnic groups in the STEM workforce.
EXPLR's top-scoring STEM Champions from all 50 states, including the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, Department of Defense schools, Bureau of Indian Education schools, and non-public schools, will be invited to showcase their projects, with an all-expense paid trip for them and their caregivers at the National STEM Festival in Washington, D.C., in April 2024.
Student submissions will be accepted through Nov. 12 and finalists will be announced Dec. 22.
For more information about the National STEM Festival, including submission guidelines, visit the event's website.
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