MONTHLY NEWSLETTER / SEPTEMBER 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
- Grants, Funding, & Scholarships
-
Articles and Publications
| | |
A New School Year. A New Opportunity to Move STEM Forward.
As a new school year begins across Philadelphia, we have another opportunity to ask ourselves an important question: What can we accomplish together that we cannot accomplish alone? This is the time when Philadelphia students are stepping into classrooms, laboratories, community spaces, and workplaces with curiosity, creativity, and potential. As the Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem, we are uniquely positioned to make sure every student has the opportunities, relationships, experiences, and support they need to turn that potential into possibility.
This year, we need to continue connecting educators, industry, higher education, nonprofits, government, and community partners around a shared vision for STEM learning and opportunity in Philadelphia. We need to break down silos, share resources and expertise, and strengthen pathways from classroom to career. Most importantly, we need to ensure that every young person in Philadelphia can see themselves as someone who belongs in STEM.
Off course, the challenges are significant. But guess what?… so are the opportunities. This is the year to move from connection to action; from individual efforts to collective impact; and from promising ideas to sustainable pathways.
I’m excited about what we can build together—and I invite every member of the Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem to lean in, bring your expertise, make a connection, share an opportunity, open a door, and help us create a stronger STEM ecosystem for Philadelphia’s young people.
Let’s all start this journey together this fall during STEM Equity Week and STEMposium!
STEM Equity Week | October 24 to 31, 2026
A week to elevate the work happening across Philadelphia, celebrate the people and organizations creating greater access and opportunity, and recommit ourselves to advancing equity in STEM.
STEMposium | October 29, 2026
Our opportunity to come together as a community, connect across sectors, share ideas and practices, and build the relationships that will move our collective work forward.
Philadelphia’s students are ready. Let’s make sure Philadelphia’s STEM Ecosystem is ready for them.
David S. Garbe, PhD (he/him)
Director, McKinney Center for STEM Education
| | STEM Highlight of the Month | | |
Philadelphia STEM Equity Week 2026
October 24 to 31, 2026
An invitation to Showcase your Philly STEM Program!
| | |
PSEC’s Philadelphia STEM Equity Week is a week-long celebration of inclusive, accessible STEM learning across the Philadelphia region. The initiative highlights the incredible work of local organizations that are expanding access to STEM through hands-on activities, community-centered programs, while providing engaging experiences for learners of all ages. Past events have included bird watching, cosmetic chemistry, DNA extraction, robotics, and more—each designed to spark curiosity and connect people with STEM opportunities close to home.
WE NEED YOU! PSEC invites partners and collaborators to be part of this exciting celebration by hosting STEM-facing activities during Philadelphia STEM Equity Week. Activities may focus on topics such as artificial intelligence, maker spaces, scientific research, outdoor learning, professional development, STEM career pathways, art, history, youth voice, or other creative approaches. Programs may be designed for youth, families, high school and college students, educators, job seekers, parents and caregivers, STEM employers, emerging professionals, established professionals, or any other audience ready to explore STEM in meaningful ways. If you are interested in hosting an event, please click HERE.
To support participation, PSEC is offering a limited number of $350 host awards to event organizers across Philadelphia. These awards can help offset activity costs and bring bold, engaging STEM experiences to life. Apply by September 30, 2026, to be considered for an award. All other submissions have an October 15, 2026 deadline.
| |
STEM Equity Week will also feature PSEC’s 4th annual STEMposium on October 29, 2026, at Convene at Two Commerce Square. Mark your calendar for this signature gathering of STEM champions, partners, and changemakers. More details about STEMposium and Philadelphia STEM Equity Week will be available on PSEC’s website by September 15, 2026. For more information contact Betsy Payne, Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem Manager.
| | News from the McKinney Center | | |
Ignite STEM Summer 2026:
STEM in a Box
| |
The McKinney Center’s Ignite STEM program wrapped up an action-packed six-week summer with 57 youth completing the program and connecting classroom learning to real-world STEM applications through hands-on projects, field experiences, financial literacy, and college and career exploration. Funded through JEVS Human Services’ C2L PHL initiative, this summer’s “STEM in a BOX” theme challenged youth to think creatively, solve problems, collaborate, and recognize the many ways STEM shapes the world around them.
Youth designed and built robotics projects, explored the chemistry behind cooking, practiced data mapping, and used the CentIQ app to develop practical skills in financial literacy and making informed financial decisions. As one student shared, “Ignite STEM is a hands-on program that helps students explore STEM careers, build skills, and gain real-world experience.” The summer also took learning beyond the classroom through field experiences designed to connect STEM concepts to college, careers, technology, engineering, and the systems that shape our communities. Another student summed it up more simply: “You get to go on educational trips, do experiments, and even get taught lessons on money managing.”
However, perhaps the most meaningful impact of the summer was the personal growth students experienced. Reflections highlighted increased confidence, communication, teamwork, networking, responsibility, and a willingness to try new things. From hands-on experiments and virtual reality, to financial literacy, college exploration, and a visit to Washington, DC, Ignite STEM gave youth opportunities to learn by doing and connecting what they learn today with where they might go tomorrow. “STEM in a BOX” was about opening the box—and opening students’ minds to what is possible.
For more information about Ignite STEM, contact Barbara Cousar, PEF's STEM Workforce Development Manager and C2L PHL Site Supervisor.
| |
Congratulations Ebony Dyson for being honored as a South Carolina State University's Forty Under 40!
| | |
The 2026 Cohort of Forty Under 40 Alumni Achievement Awards spotlight exceptional graduates who are advancing in their careers, championing community causes, and leading with purpose. This is a perfect description for long-time Ecosystem member and friend Ebony Dyson who received the award for advancing science and empowering students.
Ebony Dyson is the Assistant Principal of School Climate & Culture at Abraham Lincoln High School in the School District of Philadelphia, where she cultivates strong relationships with students, families, staff, and community stakeholders while overseeing school climate initiatives, student discipline, restorative practices, and teacher coaching. She is an educator and instructional leader committed to creating learning environments where students and teachers thrive.
She is also Program Manager and Senior Instructor for the eCLOSE Institute where she provides research instruction, mentoring undergraduate interns, facilitating professional development for educators, and guiding students through laboratory-based scientific research. Skilled in Youth Development, Public Speaking, Teacher Training, Fundraising, and Program Development, Ebony is a true force of nature.
Congratulations Ebony!
| |
Building State Coalitions to Support a Skilled
K-12 STEM Teaching Workforce
| |
| |
Teach STEM in PA is a statewide initiative advancing regional collaboration, equity-driven systems, and sustainable pathways for recruiting, preparing, and retaining math and science educators across Pennsylvania. In partnership with the Smithsonian Science Education Center, they are gathering information about the current state of STEM Teacher Workforce development efforts in Pennsylvania using this short survey.
The Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem is collaborating with Teach STEM in PA as it establishes six regional STEM Educator Talent Development Hubs aligned to Pennsylvania’s education and workforce ecosystems. For more information, contact Arthur Mitchell, STEM Equity Alliance Executive Director. Please share the survey with your organization, ecosystem, and school networks. Deadline to fill out the short survey is September 15, 2026.
| |
Workshops:
CASE College Awareness Campaign
October 2026
| |
|
College Access and Success Ecosystem (CASE) is a data-driven, collective effort, with a goal of leveraging the talents of nonprofits, school leaders, government and industry to improve high school, college and postsecondary completion rates. We seeking support for the upcoming college awareness campaign in October 2026 around specific topics.
Please go to our opt in campaign survey if you may be a good fit for providing a workshop or connecting us to experts in the following content areas: College Essays, Dual Enrollment and Early Credit, Workshops in Spanish, Connecting majors and careers, What’s next after clicking submit?, and Scholarships Demystified (with PG2C). For more information, contact Ellen Ridyard, Director of Collaborations and Partnerships at the Philadelphia Education Fund.
| | Events, Workshops & Webinar | | |
AI Identity to Impact Learning Institute
Join Techbridge Girls for this free virtual learning experience for educators, nonprofit leaders, youth-serving professionals, and community leaders. Through two interactive 90-minute sessions, participants will build their understanding of AI, explore its impact on young people, and develop practical strategies for navigating AI through a community-centered, equity-focused lens. September 9 from 12:00pm to 3:15pm.
From Theory to Action: A Symposium for Civic and Community Engagement - Campus Compact
This in-person symposium brings together key leaders from Campus Compact Campus Action Planning (CAP), Philadelphia Higher Education Network for Neighborhood Development, and Building Theory to Practice (BTtoP) networks for a collaborative day of strategic learning and institutional planning. A central focus of this symposium is exploring how the BtoP Paradigm framework can support and inform the Campus Action Planning process. Participants will examine how foundational theoretical commitments to student well-being and inclusive excellence can be operationalized through CAP’s five planning domains. September 10, 2026 from 9:00am to 2:30pm at Temple University.
Strong Readers Start With Strong Teachers - Read by 4th Lunch and Learn
If we want our children to become strong readers, we have to invest in the people who teach them. Join us for a conversation with Scott Gaiber, Deputy Chief of Talent Initiatives at Elevate 215, about the Philadelphia Citywide Talent Coalition’s work to recruit, retain, and develop diverse, effective teachers. September 10, 2026 from 12:00pm to 1:00pm.
CollegeFest
CollegeFest is Campus Philly's official welcome-to-Philadelphia week, curated for new & returning college students in the Greater Philadelphia Region. Students can explore 25+ Philly-area museums, national landmarks, and historic sites for FREE—exclusively with their CollegeFest pass. Your CollegeFest pass also gets you deals & discounts on transportation and FREE entry to the Campus Philly Block Party. September 14 to 20, 2026.
Gender Minorities in the Sciences Panel
The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University and the Science History Institute are hosting the second Gender Minorities in Science Panel. During this panel, speakers will share their journeys, experiences, challenges, and successes in building meaningful careers in science and technical fields. They will provide insights into how to advocate for oneself while fostering partnerships in male-dominated environments, and discuss the unique experiences of scientists at the intersection of diverse identities. September 16, 2026 from 5:30 to 8:00pm at the Science History Institute, 315 Chestnut St, Philadelphia.
2026 Refugee Education Summit
This summit is a unique in-person, two-day convening for Pennsylvania educators, community staff, and other practitioners who work with refugee students and families. Plan to attend to learn more about engaging, supporting, and advocating for newcomer students and their families. The 2026 Refugee Education Summit is sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Refugee Education Program in partnership with Pennsylvania Department of Human Services and in collaboration with Center for Schools and Communities. September 22 & 23, 2026. in King of Prussia.
Fall PHENND Virtual Meeting
The Fall PHENND Meeting is a chance for the entire PHENND Network to get together to share ideas, events, challenges, etc. It is also a time to hear from PHENND staff about our activities and opportunities for partnership in the coming academic year. Participants will also be able to go deeper with breakout rooms led by each of the staff. We also hope to be unveiling our new website! October 1, 2026 from 10:00 am to 11:30am.
PA STEELS Engineering Design & STEM Symposium - Sphero
Sphero is excited to partner with the MCIU, along with the CCIU, DCIU, and Bucks IU, to host a FREE Engineering Design & STEM Symposium for principals, school leaders, CTE/Tech and Engineering teachers, and K-12 STEM/STEAM educators eager to bring engineering, robotics, and competitions to life in the classroom. This hands-on professional learning experience features engaging sessions with Blueprint Snap, Blueprint Engineering, and Blueprint Robotics—giving participants the chance to explore innovative ways to teach foundational engineering, robotics, and real-world problem solving that connect directly to future career pathways. October 20, 2026 from 9:00am to 3:00pm at the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit, Norristown, PA.
| |
Looking for more STEM related activities?
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:
3DPrintopia
Join us at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in downtown Philadelphia for a weekend filled with all things 3D printing. This fun, in-person event is perfect for beginners and pros alike. Explore cool workshops, meet fellow enthusiasts, and see mind-blowing 3D creations come to life right before your eyes. Whether you want to learn new tricks or just geek out over tech, 3DPrintopia® has got you covered. 3DPrintopia is family-friendly and admission for all students under 18 is free. Don’t miss out on this epic chance to bring your ideas into the third dimension! September 26 and 27, 2026 at the Philadelphia Convention Center.
STEM Science Saturday - The Pressley STEM Foundation
Pressley STEM is committed to creating opportunities that inspire and empower children (ages 7 through 17) in Philadelphia. Through STEM programs and hands-on activities, the organization offers children and teens positive, educational experiences that help build confidence, creativity in a challenging yet safe and fun environment. STEM Science Saturday takes place the last Saturday of each month.
Parenting Workshop and Family Hike - Riverbend Environmental Education Center
Families are invited this FREE event as we mark the start of Fall. Come learn from parenting experts from the world of psychology, education, and learn about how the local public school district handles screens in school. Our panelists will discuss setting healthy screen limits with kids, plus how to replace screens with outdoor activities. Best enjoyed by parents of children Pre-K through 8th grade. September 29, 2026, Time TBD.
2nd Annual Community Career+Education Forum
CCEF is an educational event designed to raise awareness of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education and career opportunities. Students in grades 6–9 will enjoy hands-on STEM activities, exciting giveaways, and leave with new insight into the many paths available for their future. While CCEF is geared toward students in grades 6–9, all students and families as well as teachers, guidance counselors and administrators are welcome to attend. October 1, 2026 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm at Edgmont, PA
Cyber Security and Digital Marketing Pre-Apprenticeships Programs - We Love Philly
Both our Pre-Apprenticeship programs, Digital Marketing and Cybersecurity were intentionally created to help high school-aged youth earn a livable wage while learning career skills in order to help them graduate. Spring 2027 Applications open October 5 to December 11th, 2026
RESOURCES:
SKillUp PA - Free Training for PA Residents
SkillUp PA was launched to provide access to free, online job skills training to Pennsylvania residents. Courses are available on the Metrix Learning Portal and can be accessed by registering for a free account on the PA CareerLink website. The program was created to help Pennsylvania residents strengthen their job skills to be competitive in the current employment market.
| | Opportunities & Resources for Teachers & Educators | | |
OPPORTUNITIES:
Creating Thriving Learning Communities - Fall 2026 Cohort
PHENND will again offer a virtual four-part series is open to educators across the spectrum, whether school-based, university-based, or community-based. We will explore trauma-informed and healing-centered approaches to incorporate in your classrooms and beyond, and help educators consider the ways both structure and flexibility are key to a successful learning environment. The series uses both theory and practical tools to help educators create a supportive learning environment for all students and develop a learning community that promotes belonging and safety. Participants should expect each of the four sessions (9/30, 10/7, 10/14, and 10/21) to take 2 hours with brief amounts of homework/reading in between sessions. Enrollment will end September 23, 2026.
Back to School with PAEE: STEELS Support and Resources for PA Educators
Get ready for back to school with PAEE! Join our PD Director, Amanda Jeane, for a free, interactive webinar designed to help PA educators feel confident heading into the school year with the PA STEELS standards. Whether you’re a classroom teacher or a nonformal educator, we’ll break down what STEELS are, why it matters for environmental education, and how PAEE’s resources and programs can support your work all year long. Registration is required. September 24, 2026 from 4:00pm to 5:00pm
Solar Panel Kit Training - Philadelphia Solar Energy Association (PSEA)
PSEA is holding its Solar Panel Kit Training for middle school and 9th grade teachers interested in exploring hands on STEM education in solar photovoltaics and electricity. These kits include an upcycled 18 volt solar panel, a banker’s box full of classroom materials and PSEA’s Solar Kit Lesson Plans. The training is free and limited to ten teachers. For more information, check out our website or contact Liz Robinson. Saturday, September 26, 2026 at the Friends Center, 15th and Cherry Streets in Philadelphia from 10:00am to 12:30pm.
CSinPA Cybersecurity Pathway for 7-12 and Career and Technical Education (CTE) Educators
This comprehensive professional learning program is designed to equip grades
7–12 and CTE educators with the knowledge, tools, and instructional strategies needed to implement high-quality cybersecurity education in their classrooms and schools. The pathway provides educators with hands-on learning experiences focused on cybersecurity fundamentals, frameworks and standards, curriculum integration, career exploration, industry partnerships, and classroom-ready instructional resources. Two cohorts available, one starting in October 8 and another in January 7, 2026.
Empowering Pennsylvania Educators: Capture the Flag (CTF) for Cybersecurity Career Preparation
This two-day intensive workshop is designed to help educators integrate Capture the Flag (CTF) experiences as an engaging and effective instructional strategy for teaching cybersecurity concepts and preparing students for high-demand careers. It provides participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to use CTF challenges to develop students' technical abilities, critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills through authentic, hands-on learning. November 2 & 3, 2026 at Penn State University State College.
Sound Science Teacher Community - National Center for Science Education
Are you teaching evolution, climate change, or data & media literacy skills at the high school level? Want to try out some new classroom resources and join a community of passionate teachers? If so, you are invited to join the Sound Science Teacher Community. You will be part of a community of passionate science teachers; receive support from NCSE Science Education Specialists; earn a $150 stipend and an exclusive t-shirt upon completion of requirements; and have the potential for future opportunities with NCSE projects.
RESOURCES:
STEM Next Quarterly Asset Package - July-September 2026
STEM Next compiles a quarterly asset package of resources, opportunities and activities to meet the needs of program providers and staff in your state. Please share these assets widely with your partners and programs! Check back for updates throughout the quarter.
Pennsylvania State Parks Educator E-Blast July/August 2026 Edition
As you begin to get back into the swing of things, we are delighted to share a selection of wonderful environmental education and back-to-school resources, webinars, & PD coming up in September and October!
| | Grants, Funding, & Scholarships | | |
Brian Dawkins Impact Foundation Single Parent Household Grant Application
This grant helps eligible single-parent families in Philadelphia remove a financial barrier that may prevent their child from participating in a meaningful out-of-school enrichment, educational, developmental, or wellness opportunity. Eligible families may receive a one-time grant of up to $1,000 per family. Grant funds are not paid to the parent or child. If selected, Caring People Alliance will pay one approved program or service provider directly on behalf of the family. Application deadline is September 8, 2026.
Erie Insurance Giving Network
The Erie Insurance Giving Network helps Erie Insurance and the Erie Insurance Foundation volunteer time and give annually to organizations that support our three areas of focus—community building, safety and environmental responsibility. You can submit a funding request under $10,000 for consideration at any time. For grants of $10,000+, you must apply by September 11, 2026.
Learning & Leadership Grants - The NEA Foundation
Our grants enable educators to grow their leadership skills and invest in
professional development to maximize their impact inside and outside the classroom. They are available to individual educators or groups of educators who are pursuing high-quality professional learning experiences that will enhance their classroom teaching, leadership skills, or professional partnerships. Deadline to apply is September 15, 2026.
Innovation Grants Program - The Seybert Foundation
Seybert Foundation’s Innovation Grants Program will provide one-time grants for specific proof-of-concept purposes, intended for emergent or existing Philadelphia-youth-serving nonprofit organizations wishing to either a) test a bold new approach OR b) pursue a time-sensitive opportunity that could lead to significant change. Individual grants will range in size from $20,000-$60,000. Deadline to apply is September 18, 2026.
STEM Programs Grant - Glenn W. Bailey Foundation
We support STEM educational opportunities ranging in age from early-elementary through post-doctoral candidates and beyond to promote intense STEM learning and initiatives that seek to increase awareness and success in STEM careers in the United States. Applications are now open.
NCWIT Aspirations in Computing High School Award
This award honors 9th - 12th grade students who are active and interested in computing and technology, and encourages them to pursue their passions. Award recipients are selected based on their aptitude and aspirations in technology and computing, as demonstrated by their computing experience, computing-related activities, leadership experience, persistence, and future plans.
Deadline to apply is October 27, 2026.
| |
- The Department of War STEM Strategic Plan FY2026-FY2030
-
The State of 10 Cities, PEW, updated August 4, 2026
-
From Potential to Prosperity: A Strategic Agenda for Growth and Opportunity in Southeastern Philadelphia, Rachel Barker, Marek Gootman, and Alex Jones, Brookings Metro, 2026
-
5 Ways Colleges Are Reshaping STEM Education, Joshua Bay, Inside Higher ED, August 25, 2026
| |
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.
|
| | | |
