MONTHLY NEWSLETTER / JULY 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
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Summer is finally here. For my family, that means a new rhythm in our household. The pace shifts, the schedule is less full (maybe?), and hopefully, we find time to breathe. It's a time for focus, for rest, and for remembering why we do this work. And let’s not forget, for many of the young people we serve, summer opens doors to new experiences and possibilities they'll carry with them into the next academic year.
At the McKinney Center, we continue to unpack the insights from our Compass Pro Bono engagement, reflecting on the findings to help shape our strategies and work with purpose and impact. Meaningful progress in STEM education requires more than staying busy; it requires making the space to ask questions and pursue new ideas. My goal is to carve out time not just to do the work, but to explore, learn, and discover what comes next.
So whether you're recharging with family, exploring something new, or quietly planting seeds for what comes next (literally and metaphorically), know that the McKinney Center, and our collective community, is doing the same. The work we do together continues to grow, yes, even in the quiet moments. Thank you for being part of it.
David S. Garbe, PhD (he/him)
Director, McKinney Center for STEM Education
| | STEM Highlight of the Month | | |
Celebrating a True STEM Champion!
One of the highlights of this year’s Philadelphia Education Fund Gala was the presentation of the STEM Champion Award to Dr. Demetrius Roberts. The award recognizes an individual who advances STEM through exceptional leadership, mentorship, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to helping students explore and succeed in STEM education and careers. As Special Consultant for STEM and Computer Science with the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Dr. Roberts has been a tireless champion for equitable access to high-quality STEM learning across Pennsylvania. A trusted partner of the McKinney Center for STEM Education at the Philadelphia Education Fund, he has helped build meaningful connections between education and workforce opportunities while inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. Congratulations, Dr. Roberts, on this well-deserved honor!
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Demetrius Roberts receiving the
STEM Champion Award from David Garbe, Director of the McKinney Center for STEM Education, and Emma McKinney, widow of the beloved Don McKinney.
| | News from the McKinney Center | | |
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Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem
All-Members Networking Meeting
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It had been far too long, and not even the rain could keep our incredible community from coming together. On Thursday, May 21, our dedicated members gathered for the All-Members Networking Meeting to reconnect, strengthen relationships, share updates, review key initiatives, and help shape the future of the McKinney Center for STEM Education, including the Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem and Philadelphia STEM Equity Collective (PSEC).
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The afternoon began with remarks from Phil Brooks, Vice President, Programming and Innovation at Graduate Philadelphia, Inc., who drew on nearly two decades of leadership in workforce development and the life sciences ecosystem. A longtime friend and Steering Committee member of the Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem, Phil shared insights on the importance of collaboration in building strong STEM education and workforce pathways.
David Garbe, PEF's Director of the McKinney Center for STEM Education, followed with an update on the Center’s strategic direction, highlighting key findings from the recent Compass ProBono engagement. As the team continues to analyze the data and refine its strategies, additional findings and recommendations will be shared with members in the coming months. Betsy Payne, Manager of the Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem, then provided an overview of the Ecosystem’s recent accomplishments and the ongoing work of its collaborative workgroups. Diana Lievano, Executive Director of the Philadelphia STEM Equity Collective (PSEC), concluded the presentations by highlighting several exciting initiatives advancing STEM equity and expanding opportunities for learners across the region.
Over light refreshments, the networking meeting was a great opportunity to connect with fellow members, strengthen partnerships, exchange ideas, and build new relationships. And to those who made new connections through guided networking activities and shared their information, gift cards to La Colombe were issued so that they could continue their new partnership over a cup of coffee!
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Thanks to the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University for hosting the event. We would also like to recognize the Academy's Women In Natural Sciences (WINS) program for showcasing their projects representing the work and research they do for the Academy.
To see more pictures, information and the recording of the Networking Meeting, go to Ecosystem Updates page.
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PSEC is entering a new phase of work
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Over the past four years, our workgroup model helped us convene partners, build relationships, and launch project pilots such as the Partnerships Community of Practice (PCoP) at Cramp Elementary or the STEM Summer Institute (a partnership between Heights Philadelphia and The Wistar Institute), among others. Workgroups created a strong foundation for collaboration and learning. Now, we are transitioning to a more integrated, action-oriented approach, one that connects community, education, and workforce systems and drives shared outcomes.
This new phase of work which will require we shift how we operate. We are sharpening our focus on Life Sciences and Biomanufacturing, a rapidly growing sector with tremendous opportunity for Philadelphia’s diverse talent. This step strengthens our commitment to building a cohesive, career-connected enterprise that better aligns education with regional economic needs.
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Diana Lievano, (at left presenting at the ALL Members Networking meeting of May 2026) Executive Director of PSEC, sent an open letter to all members introducing some of the changes. "In establishing our revised life sciences strategy, we are adopting a Results-Based Accountability framework to focus on measurable outcomes, align our efforts, and
guide more purposeful, collective action across the ecosystem."
To see the full letter, go HERE. For more information, contact Diana Lievano.
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On May 28, Philadelphia's IU 26 Chief Science Officers (CSO) came together for an exciting end-of-year celebration hosted at Penn Engineering, with volunteers from Penn Aerial Robotics (PennAiR) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) joining students for the occasion.
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The celebration honored CSOs from the Women In Natural Science (WINS) program, Mastery Charter Shoemaker, Girard College, Gratz Prep Middle, and Mastery Charter — students in grades 6–12 serving as liaisons for STEM and innovation in their schools and communities. CSOs complete Action Plans, build leadership skills, and work alongside advisors and industry mentors to amplify student voice and ignite new opportunities in STEM.
In the words of one of our CSOs, T.B.M.: "Being a CSO made me feel like I was helping people understand what goes on around us. In the presentation, I mostly enjoyed explaining my findings." That sense of purpose is exactly what the CSO program cultivates. Interested in learning more?
CSOs are students in 6th through 12th grade that are elected to serve as Chief Science Officers for their site and work to positively impact the STEM culture within their community. During the year, CSOs create an Action Plan and collaborate with peers, mentors, and professionals to complete their project. Contact PEF's STEM Workforce Development Manager & CSO Cabinet Coordinator Barbara Cousar.
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2026 Computer Science Teachers of the Year
Now in its seventh year, the 2026 CS4Philly Computer Science Teacher Awards celebrate exceptional educators who are expanding access to high-quality computer science (CS) education and inspiring the next generation of technology leaders across The School District of Philadelphia. CS4Philly collaborates with Jumpstart Philly CS for All, CSTA Philly and the Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem in these awards.
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This year's Awardees are:
2026 Early Career Achievement Award - Teachers who have taught CS for five years or less.
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Tasmara Davis - Computer Science & Math Teacher at Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush
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Ava Roberts - Digital Literacy Teacher at Hon. Luis Muñoz-Marín Elementary School
2026 Sustained Impact Award - Teachers those who have taught CS for more than five years
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Katharine Lanpher - Computer Science CTE Teacher at George Washington High School
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Vera Hromadka - Digital Literacy Teacher at Eleanor C. Elementary School
Gritty Award - Recognizes a teacher that has shown extraordinary perseverance and commitment to student success.
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Paula Miller - AP Physics, Robotics Teacher & Robotics Coach at Abraham Lincoln High School
Congratulations to all the teachers!
For the full press release, go HERE. For more information about CS4Philly and the awards, please contact Naomi Housman, Co-Founder of CS4Philly.
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College Bound!
I wanted to give a special shout out to a exceptional student who has helped me in the last two years - Rika Iijima. Rika has been my volunteer at the Philadelphia STEM Ecosystem since the beginning of her junior year at the George Washington Carver High School.
As she is now graduating, I will miss her personally and professionally. She has been and invaluable help to me with updating all our resources, tabling at events and in a variety of other tasks.
Rika will be attending Yale University in the fall. When asked why she picked her particular major, she said: "I hope to participate in research to help make healthcare more accessible to underserved populations and make STEM more accessible to young students. To pursue this, I want to major in molecular biology in college and become a role model to the next generation."
Congratulations, Rika!
| | Events, Workshops & Webinar | | |
Project WILD - Virtual Climate & Wildlife Educator PD
This PD will provide training on Project WILD’s Climate & Wildlife: An Activity Module for Grades 6-12, & it seeks to increase comfort with teaching about climate change utilizing this module & integrating climate change into the ELS of STEELS. This virtual PD will be interactive, and is open to all educators who work with students in grades 6-12, from formal teachers & pre-service teachers to naturalists, scout leaders, & more! Free, but registration is required. July 8, 2026.
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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:
Improve Your Interview with Grow with Google Series - Parent & Family University - Philadelphia
Take the next step in your career with this essential, free two-session interview skills workshop led by Google experts! Designed specifically for parents and caregivers, this program will equip you with the fundamental tips and confidence needed to prepare, practice, and be fully present during any job interview scenario. By completing the workshop, you will gain elevated, tangible skills and be ready to excel in your next job opportunity. July 9 and 16, 2026 from 6:00pm-7:00pm.
Career Integrated Learning Advising: Wholistic Adult Learning Supports - Parent & Family University - Philadelphia
Join our free, comprehensive workshop series, created by Graduate Philadelphia, to expand your pathways in workforce development and higher education. This series addresses the unique challenges of adult learners, focusing on key pillars for success. Each session is designed to help you identify career options, understand the benefits and differences of various credentials (micro-credentials, certificates, degrees), and navigate the entire adult learner ecosystem, including addressing outstanding back balances and degree completion.
- July 15th: 21 Questions Every Adult Learner Should Ask Before Enrolling in Workforce Training or College
- July 22nd: Earning Workforce Certificates & Micro-Credentials
- July 29th: Postsecondary Pathways: Tackling Back Balances & Finishing Your Degree
High School STEAM Camp - TGR Learning Lab
Join us this summer for hands-on, real-world learning at the TGR Learning Lab Philadelphia! Students will build technical skills, explore career pathways and gain experience. July 27 to 30, 2026. Application are on a rolling basis.
Young Scholars High School Program - University of Pennsylvania
The Young Scholars High School Program allows outstanding juniors attending a local high school within commutable distance to the University to take college courses in the fall and spring semesters. Students attending City of Philadelphia public and charter schools are eligible for tuition-free participation in the program. Application deadline is August 1, 2026.
RESOURCES:
Citizen Science - SciStarter Education
Citizen science is public involvement in authentic scientific research. SciStarter's mission is to make it simple, accessible, and fun for people of all ages to jump in and get involved in real world science. The projects and resources at SciStarter help support parents, guardians, and formal and informal educators seeking classroom and at-home STEM resources.
| | Opportunities & Resources for Teachers & Educators | | |
OPPORTUNITIES:
Gardens as Learning Labs: Using Nature to Teach Science and Environmental Literacy through STEELS - Longwood Gardens
This professional development opportunity focuses on connections in nature and how to implement PA Science, Technology & Engineering, Environmental Literacy & Sustainability (STEELS) standards in your classroom, all while earning 25 Act 48 hours. Recommended for educators in grades 3–5. July 27 to July 31, 2026 at Longwood Gardens.
Techbridge Girls Curriculum Program
What if your students could explore AI, data science, engineering, and real-world problem solving — at no cost to your site? We help educators create engaging STEM learning experiences that build confidence, belonging, and real-world problem-solving skills for Black, Indigenous, and Latina girls and gender-expansive youth. We are now accepting applications from schools, afterschool programs, and community-based organizations interested in facilitating Techbridge Girls STEM programming. Priority deadline is July 31, 2026.
Creating Thriving Learning Communities - Fall 2026
Calling educators of all kinds! Join a collaborative cohort of educators committed to recognizing and understanding the whole learner. PHENND will again offer a four-part series in the Philadelphia region, 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. Enrollment deadline is September 23, 2026.
RESOURCES:
Stardance Hack Club Challenge
Stardance is a free online summer program for teens 13–18. Build any technical project you want (websites, games, apps, hardware), log your hours, and earn real prizes: Raspberry Pis, 3D printers, even a laptop. No experience needed. Guides and a community of over 100,000 teens are there to help you get started. Runs from June 1 to September 30, 2026.
TeachEngineering
TeachEngineering is an inspiring gateway for educators who want to bring the power of real-world STEM learning into their classrooms. With thousands of free, standards-aligned lessons, activities, and units created by leading universities and educators, TE equips educators with tools that meet Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), making it easy to weave engineering concepts into any curriculum while staying aligned with academic goals.
Partnerships Dashboard - SDP's Office of Strategic Parnterships
In alignment with Accelerate Philly Strategic Action 2.8 , the Partnerships Dashboard is a public, online tool that maps school-based, student-facing programs across District schools, and visualizes the types of services - enrichment, arts, STEM, wellness, and others - those partners or programs provide. It 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.
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.
| | Grants, Funding, & Scholarships | | |
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.
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.
William Penn Foundation
We invite nonprofit organizations of all sizes to review our Requests for Proposals (RFPs). If you have an idea or project that addresses an RFP, we hope you will submit a proposal. Deadline is July 30, 2026.
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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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