West Chester University will be the recipient of $499,860 in PAsmart Advancing Grants to expand access to computer science and STEM education for Pennsylvania learners.

“Programs like these will allow students from all backgrounds to have the tools they need to enter an evolving workforce,” said State Rep. Christina Sappey. “I am proud that West Chester University is continuing to apply innovative education programing with civic engagement and experiences to advance STEM careers.”

WCU will receive the $499,860 to build on the National Science Foundation-funded Education for Sustainability Philly Teacher Leadership program. The goal is to expand student access and engagement in sustainable or “green” STEM through teacher development and to engage students in creating a sustainable Philadelphia. The program links classroom learning to civic action and green STEM careers.

Projects funded by the PAsmart Advancing Grants include:

• Computer science (CS) and STEM after-school programs in robotics and artificial intelligence
• the establishment of innovative STEM partnerships between school districts and higher education partners to provide college credits and industry credentials in STEM and CS
• support for diversity and inclusion on eSports teams in high-need areas
• establishing innovation hubs through collaborations with community colleges, city parks, and libraries to help underserved learners build STEM and computer science skills
• establishing mentorships to expose underrepresented learners to STEM careers
• opportunities for rural, urban, and suburban students to gain hands-on experience in coding and robotics

Learn more about West Chester University.