WABS is committed to bringing relevant, engaging STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) learning to Washington classrooms.

All students need a solid foundation in STEM to be prepared for life and work in the 21st Century. The WABS STEM Initiative seeks to increase student participation in STEM learning and careers, and to improve teacher competency in STEM teaching.

An integrated, hands-on approach teaches students how to think critically, solve problems and work collaboratively while engaging students and connecting them to real world applications. WABS is working with our 10 member districts to integrate the following best practices, as identified by the Regional STEM Team Initiative, for improving STEM education:

• Improved parental and public awareness
• Teacher skill-building
• Hands-on student enrichment
• Cross-district sharing through strengthened and expanded professional learning communities

On December 13, 2011, WABS hosted its inaugural STEM Leadership Launch, Advancing STEM Education, the first in a series of upcoming professional development opportunities to build capacity in STEM teaching. This event brought together over 100 participants including Superintendents, Assistant Superintendents, Curriculum Directors, Principals and other educators to refine their STEM vision and work on their districts’ STEM education strategic plans.

To learn more about WABS STEM Initiative, or to become a member of WABS, please contact info@wabsalliance.org.