MiSTEM Launches $1.75M STEM Expansion to advance STEM education statewide

Innovative partnership expands professional learning, playbook refinement and impact

LANSING, MI — The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s (LEO) MiSTEM Network announced the first step in its expanded $1.75 million Playbook Mini Grant program, awarding $800,000 to 17 public education agencies across Michigan. This funding will support the expansion of Place-, Project- and Problem-based (3P) STEM learning, giving students greater access to innovative, hands-on educational experiences that prepare them for high-demand STEM careers.

In addition to direct grant awards, 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 to ensure sustainable, scalable impact across the state.

The expansion is made possible through a $1 million contribution from General Motors, which builds on MiSTEM’s existing $750,000 program and reflects a strong public-private commitment to preparing Michigan students for STEM careers.

“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,” said David Massaron, GM Vice President, Corporate Citizenship. “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.”

 The shared commitment to advancing STEM opportunities across Michigan is helping to build a stronger, more equitable future for students, educators, and communities statewide.

"By investing in STEM education, Michigan is investing in our future workforce,” said Megan Schrauben, MiSTEM Executive Director. “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.”

This funding directly supports the state STEM strategy of 3P Learning aligned with Michigan’s strategic industries. These funds will be used to expand teacher training, student programming and community partnerships, while also helping to diversify access to STEM pathways, especially in underserved and rural areas.

Grantees

• Gull Lake Community Schools
• Buchanan Community Schools-Buchanan High School
• Ypsilanti Community Schools and Lincoln Consolidated Schools
• Wayne-Westland Community Schools
• Utica Community Schools
• Oakland Schools
• Kearsley Community Schools
• Eaton Regional Educational Service Agency
• Kent Intermediate School District
• Cadillac Area Public Schools
• Bay City Public Schools
• Brown City Community Schools
• Alcona Community Schools
• Charlevoix-Emmet ISD
• Engadine Consolidated Schools
• North Dickinson County School
• Chassell Township Schools

This strategic investment strengthens 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, to build dynamic learning environments that connect students with real-world and in-demand industry experiences. Dr. Stefanie Marshall of Michigan State University’s College of Education is providing overall programmatic oversight, instructional support and mini grant evaluation; Beyond Consulting is providing operational management, data assessments, and technological support; and MTEC SmartZone, a nonprofit innovation hub, is coordinating the administration of these funds in alignment with MiSTEM’s statewide goals.

For more information, visit the initial grant announcement, MiSTEM Network, MSU College of Education or MTEC SmartZone.