All applicants for STEM Education scholarship selected
Following an interview process, 12 students were selected as STEM Education scholars for the 2016-17 school year.
STEM Education Scholars is a new program that started last year for teacher education students focusing in a STEM field.
“So far we haven’t had to choose the award recipients because we’ve had a manageable number apply the last two years,” said Julie Cunningham, director of the Center for Excellence in STEM Education. “We’ve accepted all of the students who’ve applied.”
According to Cunningham, students apply online for the award. Each scholar needs to have a GPA of 3.5 and an ACT score of 26. An ACT score of 26 correlates with the Professional Readiness Exam every Education major must take to advance in their degree. The PRE has a low rate of passing, Cunningham said.
“Early on students get lots of experience and opportunities in STEM fields and with children,” said Elizabeth Kirby, acting dean of the College of Education and Human Services. “It’s an intensive hands-on educational experience.”
The program is funded by the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation. Each scholar can receive a one-time $1,000 award, enrollment in Leadership Safari, membership in a national math or science association and attendance at a national science, math or STEM conference, Cunningham said.
The STEM scholars will be recognized at a STEM Education Scholar reception Sept. 23 in room 413 of the College of Education and Human Services Building.
