Shaheen Introduces New Legislation to Increase Access to Afterschool STEM Programs Nationwide

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) is today introducing new legislation to increase students’ access to educational Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) instruction by ensuring afterschool programs have qualified, trained staff. In New Hampshire and across the country, particularly in rural areas, access to out-of-school and afterschool STEM learning is limited in part due to the difficulty of finding trained staff to implement high-quality STEM educational programming.

Senator Shaheen's Supporting Afterschool STEM Educators Act would establish a Professional Development Scholarship grant program for state and local organizations that offer out-of-school STEM learning to equip staff with the training and tools needed to provide high quality STEM instruction.

“Investing today in a workforce that is well-prepared for the STEM careers of tomorrow will contribute to America’s economic success, particularly in industries that are expected to grow exponentially in the coming years with rapid advancements in modern technology and AI. And yet, there are far too many barriers preventing students from receiving that critical education, including the recruitment and training of qualified instructors,” said Senator Shaheen. “My bill responds directly to concerns I’ve heard in New Hampshire—especially in rural areas—by establishing a new grant program equipping afterschool STEM educators with resources needed to effectively serve our students.”

Click HERE to view bill text.

Throughout her time in the Senate, Senator Shaheen has been a strong advocate for STEM education and scientific research funding priorities. She has also worked to secure scientific research funding for New Hampshire universities and businesses.

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