MONTHLY NEWSLETTER / FEBRUARY 2026 | |
Table of Contents
From the Director
STEM Highlight of the Month
News from the McKinney Center
Events, Workshops & Webinars
Opportunities & Resources for Students & Families
Opportunities & Resources for Teachers & Educators
Volunteer Opportunities
Grants, Funding, & Scholarships
Career Opportunities
Articles and Publications
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Couple important notes!
Thank You! Thank You!
We appreciate everyone that has already particpated in one of our focus groups or completed our in-depth survey. But our work is not done yet. If you have not done so already, please consider taking 10 minutes to complete the survey and provide us with your feedback and input. Your thoughts and ideas will help strengthen our capacity to deliver equitable, effective STEM programming throughout the city.
Remake Learning Days
The McKinney Center is excited to offer a dedicated Remake Learning Days celebration in Philadelphia this year and invites our STEM partners to host community-focused learning experiences between May 1–23, 2026. This is a unique opportunity to bring STEM concepts and hands-on learning directly to our families, young people, and communities! Please see the "STEM Highlight of the Month" below for various ways to get involved.
As always, thank you for all that you do to expand STEM opportunities and experiences in Philadelphia!
David S. Garbe, PhD (he/him)
Director
McKinney Center for STEM Education
| | STEM Highlight of the Month | | |
Remake Learning Days (RLD), a celebration of innovative experiences and opportunities for youth to develop their sense of creativity, perseverance and curiosity, is taking place between May 1-23, 2026. This year marks RLD's 10th anniversary and the Mckinney Center is excited to jump on board!! Join us in making the Philadelphia Region's inaugural year a success!
We invite all of our friends and collaborators to join our city's RLD celebration by hosting an event. These community-focused events can be big or small, indoors or outdoors, new or simply a twist on something you already do - anything that sparks wonder and curiosity! If you are ready to host an event, go to the Event Submission Page. If you need a bit of help creating a great description for your event, we even have a "Making Great Event Descriptions" host guide!
To support your event, RLD has a limited number of Event Host Awards ($150, $250, and $500) to help cover costs. Deadline to apply for an award is February 13, 2026. For more information, contact Betsy Payne, Philadelphia Regional Lead for RLD.
We are also looking for Youth Ambassadors and Parent/Teacher Ambassadors to help make this year’s festival our most joyful and community-powered yet! Know any great connectors? If so, invite them to be a Remake Learning Days Youth or Parent/Teacher Ambassador. Ambassadors help spread the word, attend two hands-on learning events during RLD, and share what they discover - photos, quotes, smiles, surprises, and all the magic that makes RLD special. It’s a light and flexible commitment, and Ambassadors can earn up to $250. If you have any questions about the Ambassadors program, contact Cari Kozicki, Project Manager of RLD Across PA - Special Initiatives.
Submit to be a Youth Ambassador HERE. For the Parent/Teacher Ambassador application, click HERE. Applications are open now and due February 13, 2026!
| | News from the McKinney Center | | |
In collaboration with Compass Pro Bono, the McKinney Center is taking a deeper look at the evolving needs of Philadelphia’s STEM community. This work will help the McKinney Center realign its focus, reinvigorate engagement, and strengthen our capacity to deliver equitable, effective STEM programming throughout the city. Ultimately, the insights gathered through this Compass engagement will inform the development of a refreshed and widely supported roadmap to guide the next phase of our collective work.
After a short series of questions about the McKinney Center and the broader STEM landscape in Philadelphia, you will be prompted to select the affinity group with which you most align and answer a few additional specific questions. At the end, you will also have the opportunity to participate in a virtual focus group, opt in to collaborate with us further, and/or choose to enter a drawing for a $100 gift card. Your answers will remain anonymous - your contact information will be collected separately and will not be linked to your survey responses. This survey closes on February 6, 2026.
If you have any questions about the survey, please contact David Garbe.
| | Events, Workshops & Webinar | | |
The Pennsylvania Statewide STEM Ecosystem (PSSE) Advocacy Virtual Meeting Series
Kicked off in January with the first of six sessions, this series combines economic insight with leadership storytelling to inspire collaboration, innovation, and advocacy across the Commonwealth. You won't want to miss the upcoming sessions:
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Agriculture and AgTech, February 18, 2026, 8:00am to 9:30am
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Energy and Clean Tech, March 19, 2026, 3:00pm to 4:30pm
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Life science and Biotech, April 21, 2026, 8:00am to 9:30am
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Advanced Manufacturing, May 20, 2026, 3:00pm to 4:30pm
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Robotics and Technology, June 18, 2026, from 8:00am to to 9:30am
For more information and to register for any of the sessions, go HERE.
Black History and Bioethics: Resources for Teaching History and Science Webinar
Join GBH Education and NOVA for a professional development webinar highlighting science and history PBS LearningMedia resources for Black History Month lessons and programming and featuring the new NOVA Critical Condition: Health in Black America collection. In this webinar, we will highlight interdisciplinary approaches to teaching content that combine the history of science and medicine, public health, Black history, and bioethics. February 3, 2026 at 7:00pm.
Prekindergarten–Fifth Grade Educator Workshop: Hands-On Environmental Science Activities
Join us to explore strategies and activities that engage young learners with science and nature. We’ll discuss methods for integrating environmental education across prekindergarten through fifth-grade settings, including classrooms, childcare centers, and before- and after-school programs. You’ll get hands-on experience with several environmental education activities and take home free resource guides and instructional materials. February 7, 2026 from 10:00am to 3:00pm at Stroud Water Research Center.
STEM Learning and Leading Internships for High School and College Students
STEM Teacher Talent Coalition and PRISE are hosting a webinar that seeks to connect high school and college students with STEM learning and internships for the summer or the upcoming school year. For students looking for STEM internships, please register to attend the event. STEM programs will present information about various offerings. For organizations offering STEM Learning and Leading internships that would like to present information about your program, please register for the event. February 19, 2026, from 7:15pm to 8:15pm.
Educator Workshop at the Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute's Professional Development team is excited to offer FREE professional development experiences in the 2025 school year for K-8 educators interested in adding more student led STEM to their classroom. Using Evidence to Support Arguments on February 26, 2026 from 5:00pm to 7:30pm.
18th Annual Black History STEM Field Trip - Grand Hank Productions Inc. and The Knowledge Factory, Inc.
We are thrilled to extend an exclusive invitation to your school to participate in the 18th Mega Event for Learning, a one-of-a-kind experience designed for K-8 students in the Philadelphia School District. Join us at the iconic Tindley Temple Mega Church for this year’s event, “Celebrating African American Scientists and Inventors Through Live Demonstrations Set to Music”. It promises an unforgettable journey of discovery, creativity, and inspiration. Led by the award-winning Master Scientist Grand Hank, students will witness electrifying demonstrations that bring science to life in a fun and engaging way. February 26, 2026 and February 27, 2026.
Educator Workshop: STEAM! - Philadelphia Art Museum
Join us if you're looking for arts integration strategies or planning a field trip. Spend time in the galleries with museum educators modeling close looking and analysis strategies you can use in the museum or in your classroom. In this workshop, we'll be featuring the connections between visual art and STEM. February 27, 2026 at 4:30pm at the Philadelphia Art Museum.
2026 PED Conference - Making a Difference: Educational Practices that Work!
Join Pennsylvania’s special education leaders for the Bureau of Special Education’s signature event. Learn and engage with nationally recognized presenters, highlighting effective leadership skills and strategies designed to make an educational difference for all students. February 25 to 27, 2026 at Hershey, PA.
PHENND Annual Conference: Democracy at the Crossroads- Higher Education’s Call to Action
The PHENND Conference is an annual gathering for practitioners of campus-community partnership. This gathering will be attended by 100-125 students, campus staff, faculty, and community organization staff active in community service, service-learning, and campus-community partnership work. While primarily targeting individuals who are part of the 25+ colleges and universities involved in the Philadelphia Higher Education Network for Neighborhood Development (PHENND), this event is also open nationally to practitioners of campus-community partnership. February 27 from 8:45am to 4:45pm.
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Looking for more to do STEM related?
Search for a variety of STEM opportunities including family days, workshops, webinars, and more at PSEC’s Event Calendar Page.
| | | Opportunities & Resources for Students and Families | | |
OPPORTUNITIES:
Great Backyard Bird Count
Connect to Birds, to Nature, and with Each Other! Spend time in your favorite places watching birds—then tell us about them! In as little as 15 minutes notice the birds around you. Identify them, count them, and submit your counts to help scientists better understand and protect birds around the world. If you already use eBird or Merlin, your submissions over the 4 days count toward GBBC. February 13 to 16, 2026.
Launchpad
Jumpstart your Career! Launchpad is where you grow, learn, and connect your passion to a career. You will jumpstart that career with hands-on technical training, industry-based work experience, one-to-one coaching, and up to 30 college credits. Not only is this offered at NO COST to you—you’ll GET PAID throughout the program. We are now accepting applications for Launchpad’s next cohort, which begins in summer 2026. Applications must be submitted by February 15, 2026 at 10:00 p.m. EST.
WINS (Women in Natural Sciences) - The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University (ANS)
The WINS program is in search of its next cohort of STEM and community leaders. Students participate in hands-on experiential learning at ANS, Philadelphia and beyond on immersive field trips, intern in our world renown natural history collections and labs, and develop a life-long network of friends and professionals. WINS is completely FREE to all participants. If you are a female currently attending the 8th grade, plan to attend a Philly public or charter high school can maintain a B average in your grades, this opportunity is for you! Nominations to the program can be made by a teacher, parent or other adults and end on February 15, 2026.
Cb101:Explore - Coded by:
This project-based, free, in-person course offers an introduction into the world of tech and entrepreneurship. By developing a business idea and creating a website, middle and high school students will acquire foundational knowledge and essential technical skills that are crucial for their future careers. Sessions go from February 18 to March 20 in the afternoon. Registration deadline is February 18, 2026.
Intensive Immersion Program - The Hidden Genius Project
The Hidden Genius Project trains and mentors Black male youth in technology creation, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills to transform their lives and communities. Our program is year-round (15-months – two consecutive summers and one full school year) and is open to students currently be in 8th through 10th grade, and will be in 9th through 11th grade next fall. Application deadline is February 20, 2026.
2026 High School Girls Engineering Mini-Camp - Widener University
Hosted in partnership with the Society of Women Engineers, this is a fantastic opportunity to explore engineering through hands-on labs, meet current engineering students, and learn about future career paths. Students will participate in three engaging lab sessions, an Engineering Student Panel, and an Engineering Careers Panel. These activities will give you a real feel for engineering disciplines and career opportunities. While students are in labs, parents have the opportunity to attend sessions on topics such as transitioning to college, engineering academics, co-op opportunities, admissions, and financial aid, plus join the panels with you later in the day. February 21, 2026 from 12:00pm to 5:00pm at Widener University, Chester, PA.
Mott Million Dollar Challenge - A Pitch Competition for Kids and Teens
This is the place where your best ideas come to life! Kids and teens grades K-12, from any U.S. state or the District of Columbia can enter solo or with a team of up to three. Just jot down your idea, record a simple 30-90 second video about it and submit your pitch. Kids and teens will compete for real cash prizes throughout the competition, with a total prize pool of $1M. Deadline to enter is February 27th, 2026.
Philly Codefest High School Edition
Calling all high school students in and around Philadelphia! Drexel University’s College of Computing & Informatics (CCI) invites you to Philly Codefest: High School Edition, a one-day hackathon designed just for you. What to Expect? Workshops & Ideation Sessions to spark your creativity; Mentoring from Drexel CCI faculty, professional staff, and current students; Judging & Awards for top projects; and a chance to learn, compete and connect with like-minded peers.
All experience levels are welcome!! February 28, 2026 from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
The Rankin Fellowship Program - Fox Chase Cancer Center
The Rankin Fellowship Program is a paid research and professional development opportunity for high school and undergraduate students interested in biomedical research, health sciences, and related career pathways. It is designed for students who are curious about research careers and would benefit from structured mentorship, hands-on experiences, and exposure to scientific and professional environments. We are particularly eager to reach students who may have had limited prior access to research opportunities but demonstrate strong motivation, curiosity, and potential. Deadline to apply is February 28, 2026.
Little Lab Bench - eClose Institute
In Little Lab Bench, June 29 to July 2, 2026, participants entering grades 1 to 4 will learn some basic research techniques used in labs around the world, while strengthening their hand-eye coordination and problem solving skills. Campers will work in a real lab using research tools like digital balances, microscopes, and pipettors! We will use the fruit fly to explore questions about diet while learning more about nutrition! Don't worry about it being "all work" we will use our science tools for plenty of STEAM/Art projects too! Early bird registration expires on February 28, 2026.
Consult for Impact Internship
Consult for Impact is a remote, problem-solving and social impact program for high-school students across all interests—medicine, business, policy, engineering, humanities, design, and more—who want to move beyond traditional volunteering and contribute where real decisions are made. You can choose from a 6-Week Team Program; a 6-Week Individual Program; or a 12-Week Implementation Internship. Under the mentorship of Ivy League MBAs and industry leaders from McKinsey, BCG, Google, students tackle real-world problems—from analysis and solution design to implementation and impact—creating portfolio-ready work and measurable community change. Early application deadline is March 1, 2026.
2026 East Coast Space Settlement Design Competition
High School students join 25-person teams that function as mock aerospace companies. Guided by mentors from the space industry, each team responds to a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) by developing and presenting a comprehensive 30-minute design proposal to a panel of judges with real-world engineering experience. The top-scoring team earns the opportunity to advance to the International Finals held at the Kennedy Space Center, where they’ll compete with winners from around the globe. March 7, 2026 from 7:30am to 9:00pm at Toms River High School East, NJ.
Teen Career Workshop - Women's Animal Center
Are you a high school student interested in working with animals? Geared towards teens 13-17, this workshop will teach teens about careers in animal welfare and veterinary practices. Participants will get to learn from our staff members about their roles at Women’s Animal Center, meet some of our Animal Ambassadors, complete a tour of the facility, and have fun! March 20, 2026 from 12:00pm to 3:00pm.
Wistar Institute’s High School Program in Biomedical Research
This summer (July 6 through July 30) program is a four-week, in-person summer research internship for high school students ages 16 and older who are currently enrolled in a science course and interested in biomedical research and related careers. It offers students hands-on laboratory experience, exposure to professional research environments, and mentorship from Wistar scientists and staff. The program is offered at no cost to participants and includes a stipend upon completion, as well as SEPTA passes to support transportation. We are especially eager to reach students with little or no prior research experience, as well as students from schools where access to advanced science resources may be limited. This opportunity is well suited for students who are curious, motivated, and interested in exploring biomedical research as a potential academic or career pathway.
Application deadline is March 20, 2026.
Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps - 2026 Philadelphia Youth Crew
Spend your summer outdoors making a difference! The Youth Summer Program is a chance for high-school-aged students between15 and 18 to work, learn, and explore in state parks and forests across Pennsylvania! For six weeks, you’ll join a team tackling hands-on conservation projects — like building trails, protecting habitats, and improving park spaces. Plus, you’ll gain job experience, career exposure, and environmental knowledge along the way. This is a paid summer job with lunch, personal protective equipment, and daily transportation provided.
Maker Faire Philadelphia 2026
Maker Faire is a gathering of fascinating, curious people who enjoy learning and who love sharing what they can do. From engineers to artists to scientists to crafters, Maker Faire is a venue for these "makers" to show hobbies, experiments, projects. We call it the Greatest Show (& Tell) on Earth - a family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity, and resourcefulness. Glimpse the future and get inspired! April 19, 2026 from 10:00am to 4:00pm at Cherry Street Pier, Philadelphia.
RESOURCES:
What's your Plan? Family and Student Companion Guide
The “What’s Your Plan?” Campaign is led by PhillyGoes2College in partnership with the CASE On-Time High School Graduation Action Team.
The campaign aims to ensure that every graduating senior leaves high school with a clear and actionable post-secondary plan, whether that path leads to college, trade school, military service, full-time employment, or entrepreneurship. This campaign reinforces the belief that every student deserves support in identifying, naming, and taking steps toward their future goals. This free guide includes resources for families and students on the major pathways high school graduates pursue: enrollment, employment, enlistment, and entrepreneurship.
Guiding Generations Program
The EARTHS, in partnership with Temple University, invites caregivers raising school-aged children to participate in its free, Guiding Generation Project (Project GG). Those who attend each weekly meeting during the 10-week cohort can receive stipends for their participation and the children .attend free trip. For more information, call (215) 255-7241.
| | Opportunities & Resources for Teachers & Educators | | |
OPPORTUNITIES:
aiEDU Trailblazers Fellowship - Spring 2026 Cohort
The aiEDU Trailblazers Fellowship is a paid, three-month experience for educators that equips educators to confidently lead in a rapidly evolving AI landscape while building capacity within their schools and districts. Fellows don’t just learn about AI readiness — they practice it, teach it, and extend its impact to students nationwide. If you are a current classroom teacher in the U.S. teaching grades 3–12; teach in a classroom where you can record implementation and collect any required student release forms; and commit to full participation in the 12-week fellowship, including five live sessions, classroom implementation, and asynchronous activities, then this opportunity is for you! Applications deadline is February 8, 2026.
STEM Pioneers Teacher Corps - National STEM Teacher Corps Regional Alliance Pilot Program
We are seeking passionate and qualified elementary teachers to apply for this elite pilot program. The STEM Pioneers Teacher Corps brings together outstanding K-5 educators across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and West Virginia who demonstrate excellence in STEM teaching. Selected teachers will join a four-year professional learning community. With limited spots available, this initiative represents a significant investment in elementary STEM education across the Mid-Atlantic region. Deadline to apply is February 16, 2026
Free PD for High School Biology Teachers and Middle School Life Science Teachers
The University of Pennsylvania Biology Department is sponsoring an online PD for high school biology teachers and middle school science teachers on Saturday, February 28 from 9:00am to 12:00pm. Our PD will include: What is natural selection?; How Eyes Evolved – Analyzing the Evidence; and Natural Selection and Adaptation over Ecological Timescales, a talk by Dr. Paul Schmidt, Professor of Biology, University of Pennsylvania. Deadline to register is February 26, 2026.
The National Book Foundation Teacher Fellowship
We support and celebrate 6th–12th grade teachers who use innovative methods to make reading for pleasure a part of their students’ school day experience. The NBF Teacher Fellowship aims to: dSupport classroom activities that have a direct impact on the development of students as lifelong readers; celebrate and highlight creative and effective models for independent reading instruction; and connect more young people with great literature through National Book Award–honored titles. As part of the Fellowship, teachers will receive a $3,000 stipend as well as a $2,000 book buying budget. Deadline to apply is February 27, 2026.
Climate-Oriented Authentic Science Teaching (My Coast) - National Center for Science Education
My Coast aims to improve teacher understanding, interest, content knowledge, and pedagogical practices as they relate to local issues, needs, and efforts surrounding the resilience and sustainability of the Atlantic coastal region. This free PD is April 19-22, 2026 at Texas A&M University Galveston. Attendees will receive a stipend for attending the experience as well as a substitute teacher stipend to cover the cost of their attendance for their school. In addition, they are provided a free online membership to the National Association of Biology Teachers for access to additional resources, webinars, and other events to support science teachers and have the option to receive 3 graduate credit hours from Adams State University free of charge. All lodging, meals, and transportation during the event are provided for those accepted. (NOTE--travel to and from Galveston to attend the meeting is the responsibility of the attendee). Application deadline is February 27, 2026.
Society for Science Advocate Program
The Advocate Program is a year-long professional development program that supports teachers and mentors who are working to increase the number of students who enter STEM research competitions. The Advocates receive training and support from Society staff, mentorship from Lead Advocate, a $3,000 stipend, and an all-expense-paid trip to attend the Advocate Training Institute in Washington, D.C. Deadline to apply is March 1, 2026.
Climate and Equity Teacher Fellowship
TERC, in partnership with the MacArthur Foundation, will welcome 18 Climate and Equity Fellows—high school educators addressing issues of climate and equity in their classrooms—to participate in the 2026 Climate and Equity Institute. The Institute will take place Sunday, July 26 – Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the Schoodic Institute campus in Maine. This is an all-expenses-paid program, including travel, and each Fellow will receive a $1,000 stipend. Application deadline is March 16, 2026.
Research Experience for Teachers Program
During this 7-week full-time research experience, teachers work alongside Penn State faculty members to conduct authentic research and receive PA STEELS/NGSS-focused virtual professional development by science education faculty members at Penn State Center for Science and the Schools (CSATS) to help translate the experience to the classroom. Teachers participating in 2026 - 2027 academic year professional development following the RET program will also receive $1,500 for implementing their classroom research projects. Application deadline is March 27, 2026.
2026 Philadelphia Institute: Teaching Students to Evaluate Sources and Claims
This 3-day Institute for middle and high school teachers will explore and connect two types of curricular materials that deepen students’ understanding of how to evaluate socioscientific issues, such as the climate crisis, energy use, and food security, using instructional scaffolds. We are looking for school-based pairs of teachers who have overlapping student populations to apply as a team. There will be two pre-Institute webinars (Mondays, May 4 and May 18, both 7-8 PM EDT) and a 3-day Institute - June 24-26 at Philadelphia Performing Arts Charter School. Complete participation in the webinars and the Institute will result in a stipend of $900 per teacher. Applications are due March 31, 2026.
RESOURCES:
Engineering Week
The only event of its kind—Engineers Week is a time for you to: celebrate how engineers make a difference in our world; add your voice to the conversation about the need for engineers and technicians; and engage students in engineering. It is more than a celebration of a profession - it’s a movement to show young people that engineering is creative, collaborative, and most importantly, open to everyone. When students see how engineering can make a real difference, and when they see people who look like them in those roles they begin to believe: this could be my future, too. February 22 to 28, 2026
eCYBERMISSION Competition
This is a free, virtual science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) competition for students in grade six to nine that promotes teamwork, self-discovery, and the real-life applications of STEM. Students work in teams, led by an adult Team Advisor, and select a problem in their community
to investigate with science or solve with engineering. Deadline to register is February 25, 2026.
The Sea, Air and Land Challenge
This challenge is a STEM initiative to provide high school aged students the opportunity to tackle a difficult engineering task while still in high school. Know that some regions also offer the program for middle/junior high school students and college freshmen. During the program, students are introduced to engineering and provided insight into some of the tremendous technical careers available to them in or supporting our Department of Defense (DoD). Teams of 3-10 students have twelve to sixteen weeks (one semester) to design and build unmanned vehicles and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) payloads to compete in predefined challenges. Team registration goes through February 2026.
Bootstrap
We craft free, research-based, integrated Computer Science and Data Science modules for Math, Science, Business and Social Studies classes grades 5-12. Our modules are designed so that teachers can mix-and-match content to fit their needs, whether to incorporate a few lessons, a 3-week unit, or a standalone course in data science, sophisticated interactive programming, or even an AP CS Principles course.
Algorithm (AI) Auditing for K-12 Learning
A compendium of resource for the lesson plans and data sets that were developed in collaboration with a group of computer science teachers to explore the use of algorithm auditing in high school classrooms. Note that while each lesson part was implemented at least once in a classroom (some in ECS, others in CS Principles classes), these are still a work-in-progress. We welcome any feedback — send an email to algorithmauditk12@gmail.com.
Subject to Climate
Explore our free, easy-to-use hub that connects educators of all grade levels and subject areas to the resources they need to teach about climate change.
We are on a mission to make climate change teaching and learning accessible to all. By enabling educators from all subjects and grade levels to teach about climate change, we believe that the next generation will be inspired to take climate action.
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The George Washington Carver Science Fair, held at Temple University, offers a fantastic opportunity for community members to engage with the future innovators of STEM - we are looking for judges! The Science Fair showcases the talented students from the Philadelphia area, with grades 6-12 participating in the secondary competitive fair on March 5, 2026; and grades 4-5 exhibiting their projects in the elementary division o April 15, 2026.. Both fairs are scheduled to begin at 9:00 AM and provide a vibrant platform for young scientists to demonstrate their skills and creativity.
Your participation as a judge not only helps recognize student achievements but also encourages the next generation of STEM leaders. If you're interested in supporting this inspiring event by becoming a judge, register HERE.
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The Cheltenham United Parents Group (UPG) is hosting our district-wide STEM Career Fair on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Cheltenham High School in Wyncote, PA. We are currently inviting STEM professionals who would be interested in serving as speakers during the career fair. This event is designed to connect our students and families with real-world STEM pathways through meaningful conversations with professionals across science, technology, engineering, and math disciplines. As valued STEM professionals, your insight, presence, and partnership make a tremendous difference in how our young people see their future possibilities! For more information, please contact Kisha Todwell-Green,
| | Grants, Funding, & Scholarships | | |
The National Grassroots Organizing Program - Ben & Jerry's Foundation
We offer two-year unrestricted, general operating support grants of up to $30,000 per year, with an average grant size of $20,000 per year, to small (budgets under $350,000), constituent-led grassroots organizations throughout the United States and its territories. We are interested in supporting groups that are carrying out activities that build support and collective action to address impacts of inequity and injustice in their communities. Application deadline is February 16, 2026.
Community Scholarship Program - Urban League of Greater Philadelphia
Your next chapter deserves support and we’re ready to invest in you! The Urban League of Greater Philadelphia Community Scholarship Program is now accepting applications from graduating high school seniors across Greater Philadelphia. Application deadline is February 20, 2026.
The Herb It Forward Scholarship
Our scholarship is open to persons between the ages of 17 and 21 as of the time of entry, who are graduating or completing homeschooling in 2025 or who previously graduated high school, have passed the GED test or have been homeschooled, completing/receiving the certificate in 2025, or students who are in their first year of education at a college, vocational, or technical school. Must be a Philadelphia or surrounding counties from households who qualify for reduced-lunch program. Scholarships range from $1,000 to $5,000. Application deadline is March 2, 2026.
Solar for Schools Grant Program - PA Department of Community & Economic Development.
The $25 million available in the second year of the program is designed to be allocated statewide by school aged population. Grant size will be slightly higher this year and grants will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. Because federal tax credits are expiring soon, schools are advised to apply as soon as possible. The PA Solar Center can provide technical assistance.
NSF STEM K-12
This grant supports research and development to advance STEM teaching and learning in K-12 formal and informal settings, leveraging AI and emerging technologies to build knowledge, create tools and strengthen the U.S. STEM education and workforce. Applications accepted on a rolling basis.
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Farmer/Educator, Deaver Wellness Farm at Lankenau Medical Center - Greener Partners
This is a part-time position primarily based at the Deaver Wellness Farm located at Lankenau Medical Center in Wynnewood, PA. The Farmer/Educator is responsible for assisting the Farmer Manager with the agricultural and educational components of the Farm. Work hours will be Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 7am-2pm.
Program Coordinator, Spark Middle Grades Initiative - Philadelphia Education Fund
This position will be working with out newest program - Spark Philadelphia - and is responsible for leading student recruitment, enrollment and retention in their assigned school; student programming in school & field trips; and build Spark culture within the school. This is an entry level grant funded position guaranteed for one year with renewal subject to future funding. The position is hybrid with two days in the Philadelphia Education Fund’s offices.
Work to Ride Senior Program Manager - Chamounix Equestrian Center
Work to Ride seeks a Senior Program Manager (SPM) to serve as the primary lead responsible for the day-to-day execution of the organization’s introductory and out-of-school-time youth programming. This is a hands-on role focused on ensuring programs are delivered safely, consistently, and with a high level of quality in an active, equine-based environment. This role oversees programming that takes place in and around horses. Candidates must be comfortable in equestrian environments and able to support safe, appropriate execution of riding and horse-related activities. Instructional certification is not required, but practical, hands-on equine and riding experience is essential. For more information, contact Nancy Peter. Please send your resume to WTR@worktoride.net
Education Policy Associate - Children First
We are seeking an outgoing individual to join the policy team to provide operational support for its advocacy, policy, programmatic and digital engagement initiatives. The Education Policy Associate will work closely with the K-12 and ECE Policy Directors, and Suburban Field Senior Manager to
grow the base of stakeholders throughout the region and support the work of education funding initiatives, and parent and youth-centered advocacy programming.
Health Care Career Pathways Teacher - Mastery Charter
We seek dynamic educators to teach the foundational Introduction to Health Care Careers I & II courses for 9th grade and 10th-grade students. This role is pivotal in building students’ understanding of healthcare careers and cultivating technical, interpersonal, and critical thinking skills essential for success. Other opportunities available.
Environmental Education Regional Program Coordinator - Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection
This position serves as the face of environmental stewardship, providing the tools and knowledge necessary for Pennsylvanians to protect our air, land, and water for years to come. Within this role, you will provide vital support for environmental education throughout Pennsylvania by delivering a wide-range of programs for students. Programs may occur in parks, environmental centers, regional offices, conservation districts, and public or private schools.
Impact Manager - City Year Philadelphia
This position is responsible for the overall management of the execution of the day-to-day operations and achievement for teams of 6-9 or 12-18 Student Success Coaches (also known as SSCs) and service outcomes. The IM manages the work of SSCs with the shared goals of keeping students on track to graduate and establishing positive relationships with school partners.
Youth Program Manager - Trellis for Tomorrow
We are seeking an experienced Youth Program Manager to lead, coordinate, and help deliver Trellis’ youth development programs, including SEED Skills, GROW Careers, and the Trellis Alumni Project. This is an exciting opportunity for a committed professional who is ready to invest multiple years in growing and refining Trellis for Tomorrow’s youth programs. We’re seeking someone who values long-term relationship building, sustained impact, and the ongoing evolution of our programs.
Computer Coding Instructor (part-time) - West Park Cultural Center
West Park Cultural Center is seeking a dynamic, motivated, and experienced Coding Instructor to join our Saturday danceLogic® program for the upcoming school year, starting on October 4th. The ideal candidate will have a passion for teaching coding to young people and possess the ability to inspire and engage young girls to learn and apply their knowledge of coding. This position is part of a team of two coding instructors teaching the class on Saturdays from 11:30am to 12:45pm.
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PA Student Aid Guide 2026-2027, Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA), 2025
Financial Aid Programs in PA, Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency & Pennsylvania Department of Education, 2025
Is That AI System Fair? New High School Curriculum Helps Students Find Out, The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, November 10, 2025
The AI Gender Gap Paradox, Mara Bolis, Stanford Social Innovation Review, October 27, 2025
Helping Youth See What’s Possible: A New Framework for Career-Connected Learning Beyond the Classroom, STEM Next, June 17, 2025
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In Memory of Donald McKinney
Donald McKinney was a beloved chemistry teacher who launched and administered the PEF’s Math and Science Coalition from 2009 to 2016. When Don passed away in January of 2016, he left behind a legacy of quality science education and hundreds of devoted students and colleagues.
In recognition of his commitment to and passion for STEM Education, PEF established the Donald McKinney Center for STEM Education.
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