Who Qualifies for Outdoor STEM Expeditions in Idaho
GrantID: 15552
Grant Funding Amount Low: Open
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: Open
Summary
Grant Overview
Addressing Practical Science Barriers in Idaho
Idaho's outdoor landscapes present a remarkable backdrop for STEM education; however, many educators face challenges in providing students with practical science experiences due to limited resources. Recent surveys reveal that over 40% of teachers in Idaho express difficulty in implementing hands-on learning initiatives because of constraints in funding and access to outdoor education resources. This issue is exacerbated in rural districts, where opportunities for field studies and experiential learning are often limited.
The barriers to outdoor and experiential STEM learning are especially pronounced in Idaho's rural schools, where teachers strive to engage students with the local ecology but often lack the funding to conduct outdoor expeditions or field trips. Students in these areas risk missing out on learning experiences that foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills in authentic environments. Many educators are eager to create outdoor STEM programs but are hindered by the lack of financial support and availability of materials necessary to facilitate these initiatives.
This grant opportunity addresses these challenges by providing funding for educators to develop outdoor STEM learning expeditions. These expeditions will focus on leveraging Idaho's rich geography and natural resources to create immersive learning experiences. Success will be measured through student participation rates, with an emphasis on their ability to apply classroom knowledge to real-world settings. Projects that demonstrate innovative approaches to outdoor learning in Idaho's unique ecosystems will be prioritized, ensuring that students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.
Who Should Apply in Idaho
Eligible applicants for this grant include K–12 public and private school teachers committed to enhancing outdoor STEM education. Educators proposing projects that directly connect students with Idaho’s diverse ecosystemslike the mountains, rivers, and forestsare particularly encouraged to apply. They must demonstrate a clear plan for how their initiatives will engage students in hands-on learning while providing an immersive experience that connects them with their local environment.
Application Requirements for Idaho Educators
When applying for this grant, educators are required to submit a detailed project proposal that outlines the objectives, planned activities, and expected outcomes of their outdoor expeditions. Furthermore, applications should include letters of support from school administration and, where possible, partnerships with local environmental organizations or educational specialists. The grant’s evaluation criteria will focus on the project’s engagement strategies, the feasibility of implementation, and the potential for real-world impact on participants.
Fit Assessment for Idaho's Context
Idaho's vast natural landscapes, from the Sawtooth Mountains to the Snake River, provide an ideal setting for educational programs aimed at bridging classroom instruction with outdoor experiences. The state's commitment to preserving its natural resources further complements this initiative, making it not only relevant but necessary for the development of students’ skills. By securing funding for outdoor STEM expeditions, Idaho educators can create enriching programs that increase student engagement while fostering a sense of responsibility for the environment.
Conclusion
By addressing the barriers to practical STEM experiences through targeted funding, this grant allows Idaho's educators to create innovative outdoor learning projects that enhance students' understanding of their local ecosystems. Educators must be proactive in applying for this unique opportunity to engage students in meaningful ways that develop their scientific inquiry skills and foster a connection to Idaho’s rich natural heritage.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
