Building Pathways to STEM in Maine for Non-Traditional Students
GrantID: 14987
Grant Funding Amount Low: $250,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $250,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Who Should Apply for Grants in Maine
In Maine, the grants available to pre-tenure faculty in mathematical and physical sciences focus on enhancing educational pathways for high school dropouts seeking to transition into STEM careers. Eligible candidates must be pre-tenured faculty members at accredited Maine institutions, with a clear commitment to developing programs that cater to non-traditional students. This aligns with Maine's broader educational strategy to increase workforce participation in high-demand fields, where a growing skill gap exists.
Maine's unique demographic landscape, characterized by an aging population and significant rural areas, increases the urgency to equip younger residents with relevant skills. Thus, applicants must address how their proposed teaching and research will engage underrepresented groups and prepare them for viable career paths in STEM fields, particularly given the state’s needs for skilled workers in technology and healthcare.
Application Requirements in Maine
To qualify for the grant in Maine, applicants are required to submit a comprehensive proposal that includes their curriculum vitae, a description of their teaching philosophy, and plans for connecting STEM education to local industry needs. They must outline previous teaching experiences and include strategies for engaging and retaining non-traditional students, particularly high school dropouts.
Alongside their applications, candidates must include letters of support from their academic institutions, highlighting the significance of their proposed work for community advancement and educational innovation. Demonstrating institutional backing is crucial in a competitive funding environment, affirming the importance of their initiatives within the state.
Fit Assessment for Maine
The funding initiative for pre-tenure faculty in Maine reflects the state's commitment to bridging educational gaps in STEM fields, particularly for non-traditional students. The outcomes envisioned through these grants aim to improve employability and workforce engagement among at-risk populations, addressing the critical need for a skilled workforce in Maine's economy.
By fostering educational pathways that are directly aligned with industry demands, Maine stands to not only elevate individual career trajectories but also enhance the broader economic landscape. This targeted approach to faculty support is integral to developing innovative educational programs that can adapt to Maine’s unique socio-economic challenges, ensuring long-term benefits for both the academic community and the state.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements