This grant proposal seeks funding to implement a comprehensive Math and Science STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) initiative for four 2nd-grade classes, serving a total of 80 students at Barrett Elementary School. The project aims to spark curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning through engaging, hands-on activities that align with state learning standards and STEM best practices.

At Barrett Elementary School the need for a robust, engaging, and equitable STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program at the 2nd-grade level is both urgent and well-documented. Our school serves a total of 579 students in grades K–5, of which over 85% qualify for free or reduced lunch, and approximately 29.71% are English Language Learners (ELLs). We also support a high percentage of students from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds in STEM fields. The target population for this project includes 80 second-grade students across four classrooms. These students will directly benefit from the proposed STEM intervention.

To address the critical need for stronger math and science proficiency in 2nd grade students, our project—STEM in Action: Building Young Innovators—will implement a hands-on, standards-aligned, and inquiry-driven STEM program that integrates math, science, and engineering principles into the daily instructional model. This project will directly impact 80 second-grade students across four classrooms and will provide educators with the resources and professional development needed to deliver high-quality, engaging instruction. Our goal is to transform student learning experiences from passive to active and from abstract to concrete.