MONTHLY NEWSLETTER / AUGUST 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
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Articles and Publications
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I am EXCITED to share that the Compass Pro Bono strategic assessment is now complete and ready for review. This report represents an important milestone for our Ecosystem and provides valuable insights that will help shape our future direction.
Once again, I would like to thank everyone who took the time to complete the survey or participate in our focus groups. Your thoughtful feedback and honest perspectives made this work possible. Together, we gained a deeper understanding of our strengths, identified opportunities for growth, and developed a clearer vision for how we can better connect students, educators, families, and employers with high-quality STEM opportunities across the Philadelphia region.
I view these readouts as a roadmap for strengthening our collective impact. I look forward to working alongside all of you as we put these recommendations into action and continue building a more connected, equitable, and accessible STEM ecosystem for every Philadelphian. If you're interested, please access the documents HERE (data output, Executive Summary, and white paper report).
In closing, it’s hard to believe that August is already here and that back-to-school season is upon us! I hope you’ve enjoyed your summer and had the opportunity to pause, reflect, and recharge for the busy months ahead. As we prepare for a new school year, I want to recognize the incredible work happening across our Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem. Your dedication, collaboration, and shared commitment continue to expand opportunities for young people throughout our region. I look forward to building on our momentum and working alongside you to make this another outstanding year for STEM education in Philadelphia.
David S. Garbe, PhD (he/him)
Director, McKinney Center for STEM Education
| | STEM Highlight of the Month | | |
Partnerships Dashboard - SDP's Office of Strategic Parnterships
The School District of Philadelphia just launched the Partnerships Dashboard. This is a public, online tool that maps school-based partnerships across the District and visualizes the types of services - enrichment, arts, STEM, wellness, and others - those partners or programs provide.
The dashboard highlights the breadth of Philadelphia's partnership ecosystem - more than 2,000 connections between schools and partners, all working together to enhance the educational experiences for thousands of students each year. Make sure to explore this interactive tool and learn about the opportunities that are available across the District.
| | News from the McKinney Center | | |
SAVE the DATE!
STEM Equity Week and STEMposium
are coming in October!
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October will be here sooner than we think! We ask that you mark your calendar for our 4th Annual Philadelphia STEM Equity Week on October 24 to 31, 2026.
STEM Equity Week is an exciting week-long celebration of inclusive, accessible STEM learning that showcases the incredible work of organizations across the Philadelphia region. Through hands-on activities and engaging experiences for learners of all ages, participating organizations help inspire curiosity and expand awareness of regional STEM opportunities. Past events have featured everything from bird watching and cosmetic chemistry to DNA extraction and robotics. Stay tuned for information on how to apply to host an event during this year’s celebration.
As part of the week, PSEC will be hosting its signature STEMposium event on Thursday, October 29th. This year's theme, Powerful Partnerships & Creative Collaborations, promises to be a great opportunity for networking and connecting with partners across the city.
Stayed tune for more information coming soon!
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The award is presented annually to an outstanding educator who is appointed to a recognized educational baccalaureate institution; recognized for advancing new teaching methodologies, or effecting new curriculum development or expansion in Computer Science and Engineering; or making a significant contribution to the educational mission of the ACM. Kafai and Resnick are visionary leaders in constructionist education and they received the award for long-lasting and collective contributions to creative computing, including Scratch and electronic textiles, developing new ways for young people to create and collaborate within learning communities. Scratch has become the world’s largest coding community for young people, with more than 150 million registered users.
Congratulations to you both for a much deserved recognition!
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Are you interested in making and makerspaces?
Help us develop our
“Learning in Makerspaces” Workgroup
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Join us this September for the inaugural meeting of the Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem’s Learning in Makerspaces Workgroup. We are excited to launch this new community of practice, led by Trey Smith, a K–8 Digital Literacy Teacher at the School District of Philadelphia, Teacher Researcher, Teacher Educator, and Einstein Fellow.
Makerspaces are collaborative learning environments where people of all ages design, build, experiment, and solve problems using STEM and STEAM practices. While making has long taken place in workshops, studios, fabrication labs, and community spaces throughout Philadelphia, makerspaces have become an increasingly important part of K–12 education. In fact, every new School District of Philadelphia school constructed over the past five years includes one or more dedicated makerspaces.
The Learning in Makerspaces Workgroup will bring together school-based educators, out-of-school-time providers, and community partners to explore how we can expand access to meaningful STEM learning experiences for young people across Philadelphia. Each meeting will provide opportunities to connect, learn, and collaborate through community announcements, a featured speaker and facilitated discussion, and small-group conversations focused on real-world challenges and promising practices. Whether you’re just beginning to explore makerspaces or have years of experience, this workgroup is designed to support shared learning and collective problem-solving.
Our inaugural meeting will take place in September 2026, with the date determined based on participant availability. We anticipate offering the session in a hybrid format to make participation as accessible as possible. If you’d like to join the Workgroup, please fill out this interest form. If you have any questions, reach out to co-chair Trey Smith at johsmi@sas.upenn.edu.
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PSSE Annual Convening: Architecting Ecosystems of Possibility
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Members of the Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem joined STEM leaders and partners from across the Commonwealth at the Pennsylvania Statewide STEM Ecosystem's Annual Convening: Architecting Ecosystems of Possibility on June 23rd in Harrisburg, PA. This gathering brought together leaders from across Pennsylvania to strengthen collaboration and align efforts around Pennsylvania’s five key economic sectors: Agriculture, Energy, Life Sciences, Manufacturing, and Robotics & Technology.
Leaders from K-12, higher education, business and industry, and community organizations from all across the state convened for a day of reflection, connection, and strategic design that focused on strengthening regional STEM ecosystems across the Commonwealth. Attendees also explored how to collectively expand opportunities for learners and build strong pathways from classrooms to careers.
Keynote facilitator and bio-futurist Billy Almon led the morning session on innovation, design, and the future of work. Ecosystems and partners spent the afternoon in discussion about "pollinating" their ecosystems with learnings from colleagues around the state with a sunflower/pollinator activity led by PSSE Assistant Director, Abbey Hathaway, PSSE Director, Stephanie Schwab and Shanna Haden, PhD, from the EPIC STEM Ecosystem.
This convening was a rare opportunity to step back, reimagine our regional ecosystems, and bridge the gap between learning and the workforce through a shared, practical language. By fostering cross-sector partnerships and shared strategies, the convening aimed to advance workforce development and expand opportunities that support Pennsylvania’s economic future.
| | Events, Workshops & Webinar | | |
Transforming Undergraduate STEM Education: Virtual Meeting on Systemic Approaches to Transforming Undergraduate STEM Education
This series of virtual meetings will explore implementation strategies for the 2025 National Academies report, Transforming Undergraduate STEM Education. The report outlines seven research-based Principles for Teaching and provides guidance for undergraduate STEM educators and institutions on improving undergraduate instruction. August 11, 2026 from 12:00 to 5:00pm.
Building AI Literacy for Inclusion in STEM: Resources and Strategies from a National Landscape Study
This webinar will share findings and recommendations from a national landscape study conducted as part of the Building AI Literacy for Inclusion in STEM initiative, developed by NGCP in partnership with Ingenia Learning and STEM Next Opportunity Fund, made possible through the generous support of the AMD Foundation. Join us to learn how all young people can be meaningfully included in conversations and decisions about AI. August 19, 2026 from 12:00 to 1:30pm.
National Rural STEM Learning Summit
STEM learning in rural communities shares many characteristics across vast geographies, yet it is also distinctly unique to each place. The National Rural STEM Learning Summit brings together STEM educators, administrators, STEM industry professionals, and community leaders to strengthen and elevate the quality of STEM education in rural communities through practice and dialogue. This special event helped to explore the unique challenges and opportunities of STEM education in rural communities and provide practical, workable resources and solutions for participants. September 3 and 4, 2026 at Glendale, AZ.
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.
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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:
Free Photography & Videography Program: Shoot Cameras Not Guns
Mighty Moves and Creative Mind Productions are excited to offer Shoot Cameras Not Guns, a free hands-on photography and videography program designed to provide youth and young adults with creative skills, mentorship, and positive opportunities. Participants will learn the fundamentals of photography and videography directly from professional photographer Vernon Ray Jr. and the Creative Mind Productions team while exploring creativity, storytelling, teamwork, and career pathways in the creative arts. New participants are welcome to join at any time throughout the program. July 9 – September 2, 2026
Thursdays & Saturdays from 10:00am to 2:00pm. For more information or to register call/text 267-423-6993 or email mightymovesteam@gmail.com.
Bug Fest - Academy of Natural Sciences
Join the Academy for a wild weekend celebrating more than a few of our favorite (invertebrate) things. From the thrilling return of our famous Roach Races to scientist-led Bug Walks on the Parkway, there’s something for everyone — kids and adults alike! August 8 and 9. 2026.
Regional Job Fair - Good Jobs Challenge
Hosted by the Southeastern PA Good Jobs Challenge in collaboration with
PA CareerLink Partners across Bucks, Delaware, Chester, Montgomery, and Philadelphia Counties. With over 30 employers offering opportunities in healthcare, life science, IT, energy and much more. August 21, 2026 from 10:00am to 3:30pm at PA CareerLink Suburban Station, Philadelphia.
STEMM Delivered Back-to-School STEMM Fair
Sponsored by Temple University College of Science and Technology's, the National Board of Medical Examiners and Elements of Community, Inc. this event will bring together local families, students, educators, and community organizations. Expect a day of hands-on STEMM activities and demonstrations, Information about educational and enrichment opportunities, exposure to STEMM careers and pathways, community resources for students and families and a backpack and school-supplies giveaway to support students as they begin the school year.
August 29, 2026 from 10:00am to 2:00pm at Temple University.
Celebrating One Year of Inspiring Futures - TGR Learning Lab
We are celebrating one year of impact, growth and community at the Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab Philadelphia. Join us for an afternoon of fun, learning and connection as we celebrate this milestone with hands-on STEAM activities, food, giveaways, community resources and opportunities to register for FREE Fall programs for students in 1-12 grades. August 29, 2026 from 12:00 to 3:00pm.
Wohlreich Junior Fellow Program - The College of Physicians of Philadelphia
The Wohlreich Junior Fellows program is a nine-month after-school program for high-school students interested in science, technology, and medicine. The 500,000 objects held at the Mütter Museum and Historical Medical Library offer unlimited opportunities for students to learn about the histories of science and medicine through hands-on engagement with medical models, instruments, and texts. Students will receive a stipend for successful completion of each semester.
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:
Ready for Roman - Resources for Celebrating the Launch of NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope
NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope may launch as early as September 2026; join us as we learn more about Roman and prepare to engage learners through national events. We will be joined by experts from the Space Telescope Science Institute and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, who will share details about the telescope, the science behind the spacecraft’s new technology, and provide information about how you can access a collection of public engagement resources and professional training materials developed by NASA’s Universe of Learning. Be ready to bring the excitement of Roman to your community! August 11, 2026 from 2:00 to 3:00pm.
Curriculum Deep-Dives with Day of AI_AI Teacher Academy
Join our free, virtual professional development program for U.S. high school teachers. Participants will explore classroom-ready AI resources, build their understanding of AI concepts, and have access to industry-recognized certifications. No prior AI experience is required. The program begins with a Summer Curriculum Deep-Dive, offered as an 8-hour live virtual experience across one of two two-day cohorts: July 28–29, 2026 or August 11–12, 2026.
Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award - PA Department of Education
The RISE Award was created recognize and promote the commitment and excellence exhibited by full- or part-time classified school employees who provide exemplary service to students in prekindergarten through high school. To nominate someone complete the Nomination Form. If you have any questions about the RISE Award, contact the Division of Planning and Professional Development at:
RA-EDNominations@pa.gov. Nominations deadline is August 30, 2026.
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.
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.
RESOURCES:
AP Cybersecurity and AP Networking - College Board
Exciting news is coming for both CS teachers and students interested in taking AP classes. College Board has announced two brand new tech-based AP courses:
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AP Cybersecurity - This course will be introduced for the 2026-2027 Academic School Year.
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AP Networking - This course will be introduced for the 2027-2028 Academic School Year.
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.
PK–12 Computer Science Standards, 2026 - Computer Science Teachers Association
Computer science (CS) is the study and human-centered practice of using data, algorithms, and computing systems to solve problems, make discoveries, and express ideas. Foundational knowledge of CS is necessary for students to understand and address the questions they face today and will face in the future. There are also specialty standards for high school which include AI, Cybersecurity, Game Development and others.
National Informal STEM Education Network (NISE)
If you work in informal STEM education, museums, science centers, libraries, afterschool programs, the NISE Network events page is worth bookmarking. They run free professional development webinars (Tuesdays at 2pm ET) plus a rolling calendar of STEM-related seasonal events and holidays to help you plan hands-on public programming all year.
| | Grants, Funding, & Scholarships | | |
IPromise Jeffrey M. Glabicki Memorial Giving Fund - Volpe Koenig
Volpe Koenig established the Fund to assist Greater Philadelphia Metro area nonprofit organizations with continuing their missions and establishing new programs. The fund awards one $40,000 grant to a single qualifying organization. Application deadline is August 14, 2026.
Game On-Community Places to Play Initiative - The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation and LISC
The initiative provides funding and technical assistance to community-rooted organizations working to create and renovate multi-use youth sport spaces in under-resourced communities across the country. The goal is to improve the quality, safety, and accessibility of local athletic spaces for young people. Grant awards will range from $50,000-$100,000 and will require 1:1 match funding. Application deadline is August 15, 2026.
S. Albert Fund Grant - Graduate Philly
This grant provides up to $1,500 in funding to support women in the Greater Philadelphia area with unpaid back balances from previous semesters. Most live in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Application deadline is August 28, 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.
Valentine Foundation
Our grants are primarily available to nonprofit organizations in the Greater Philadelphia area that focus on improving the lives of women, girls, and non-binary individuals. We particularly encourage applications from organizations led by women and those serving underrepresented communities. Applicants can request general operating or project-specific funding, with grants ranging from $8,000 to $15,000, and multi-year options available. Deadline for submitting a Letter of Intent is August 31, 2026.
The Henrietta Tower Wurts Memorial (HTWM)
HTWM Fund focuses on programs that directly serve or improve the welfare of disadvantaged children, youth, and the elderly living in the City of Philadelphia which a modest grant can play a significant part and which have meaningful goals in relation to the total resources committed to them. HTWM considers grant proposals from 501(c)3 organizations serving residents of the City of Philadelphia with budgets that are $1.5 million and under. Grants are made on a one-year basis and range from $1,000 to $5,000. Deadline to apply is September 1, 2026.
Pets in the Classroom
The Pets in the Classroom grant program supports teachers in enhancing students’ educational and personal development through interaction with pets in their classroom. Application process for the 2026-27 school year opens July 1, 2026.
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Afterschool Is Essential to Building AI Literacy at Scale - STEM Next Brief, June 2026.
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STEM in the Summer: How to Spot Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Everywhere, STEM 101, June 2026
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Building Shared Understanding for Quality Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Programs, Prepared to Teach, July 28, 2026
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2026 State of Our Kids Report: Addressing the Youth Mental Health Crisis, KABOOM!, 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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