Unique Professional Development Program Celebrating 10th Anniversary 

Applications are now open for middle school science teachers nationwide to apply for a spot in the 2025 class of the National STEM Scholar Program, a unique professional development program providing advanced STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) training, national network building, and “big idea” project support for middle school teachers inspiring the next generation of STEM pioneers. 

Ten years ago, the National Stem Cell Foundation and The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at Western Kentucky University (WKU) partnered to create the National STEM Scholar Program. The program selects 10 teachers each year from a national pool of applicants based solely on their description of a “big idea” Challenge Project they would implement in their classrooms if funds were available. In addition to a week of advanced STEM training and project development on the campus of WKU, each class spends a day with a nationally or internationally recognized STEM speaker. 

The program was established as a workforce development solution for an alarming shortage of U.S. STEM-educated graduates. Research shows that middle school students who get excited about science are the ones who will pursue STEM courses in high school and beyond. By focusing on the particularly influential middle school science teacher, it introduces STEM careers to students who may never have been exposed to the possibilities. Funded projects have included robotics labs, 3-D printing labs, rocketry programs, aquaponic farms, trout hatcheries and oyster reef restoration, among many others. 

There are currently 90 STEM Scholars representing middle schools in 35 states, from Hawaii to New York and Alaska to Florida. Each successful Scholar applicant receives the following: 

• Advanced STEM education and leadership training on the campus of WKU May 25 – May 31, 2025. All expenses – travel, lodging, meals – are included 
• A notebook/tablet (Chromebook or similar) to facilitate ongoing collaboration 
• A generous stipend for technology and supplies to implement a classroom Challenge Project 
• Sponsored attendance at the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) National Conference 

Applications are open now – click here to apply. 

About the National Stem Cell Foundation 

The National Stem Cell Foundation (NSCF) funds adult stem cell and regenerative medicine research, underwrites the National STEM Scholar Program for middle school science teachers nationwide inspiring the next generation of STEM pioneers, and covers copays and deductibles for children participating in clinical trials for rare diseases when those out-of-pocket costs are beyond a family’s means. We build partnerships and collaborations in research, education, and advocacy to solve problems, eliminate silos and maximize donor impact. For more information, visit www.nationalstemcellfoundation.org. 

About The Gatton Academy 

Established in 2007, The Gatton Academy is Kentucky’s first residential two-year program for gifted and talented juniors and seniors. The Gatton Academy’s students enroll as juniors and are full-time WKU students pursuing their interests in advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The Gatton Academy has been named to Jay Mathews’ list of top-performing schools with elite students for eleven consecutive appearances and received the National Consortium for Secondary STEM School’s Innovation Partnership Award. 

Contact: 

National Stem Cell Foundation

Heather Russell-Simmons 

Chief Program Officer 

502.379.8544

press@nationalstemcellfoundation.org