Cadillac Area Public Schools, Alcona Community Schools, Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District, Engadine Consolidated Schools, North Dickinson County School and Chassell Township Schools are among 17 public education agencies across Michigan receiving support through the first step of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s MiSTEM Network expanded $1.75 million Playbook Mini Grant program.
According to the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, MiSTEM awarded $800,000 to the 17 agencies to expand Place-, Project- and Problem-based STEM learning, also known as 3P learning, to give students greater access to hands-on educational experiences tied to high-demand STEM careers.
The remaining funds will be used to provide professional learning and hands-on support for participating educators while testing, refining and strengthening the MiSTEM Playbooks for long-term use across the state.
The expansion was made possible through a $1 million contribution from General Motors, building on MiSTEM’s existing $750,000 program.
“Every student deserves the chance to build strong STEAM foundations early, because these skills open doors to the high-growth careers that can shape their future,” David Massaron, GM vice president of corporate citizenship, said. “GM’s partnership with the MiSTEM Network expands hands-on, real-world learning experiences that help young people across Michigan see themselves as future engineers, problem solvers and innovators. When we invest in STEAM pathways, we strengthen the future for the communities we call home.”
MiSTEM Executive Director Megan Schrauben said the program is part of a broader effort to strengthen Michigan’s future workforce.
“By investing in STEM education, Michigan is investing in our future workforce,” Schrauben said. “MiSTEM will continue to provide updates and outcomes of this partnership, as we work together to strengthen STEM education across the state and close talent gaps.”
The funding supports the state STEM strategy of 3P learning aligned with Michigan’s strategic industries. The money will be used to expand teacher training, student programming and community partnerships while helping diversify access to STEM pathways, especially in underserved and rural areas.
MiSTEM said the effort is part of a public-private collaboration among General Motors, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s MiSTEM Network, Michigan State University, Beyond Consulting and MTEC SmartZone.
Dr. Stefanie Marshall of Michigan State University’s College of Education is providing overall program oversight, instructional support and mini-grant evaluation. Beyond Consulting is providing operational management, data assessments and technological support, while MTEC SmartZone is coordinating administration of the funds in alignment with MiSTEM’s statewide goals.
For more information and to see the initial grant announcement, visit MiSTEM Network, Michigan State University College of Education and MTEC SmartZone.