| April 23 | Volume 8 - 2026 |
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The NC STEM Center is a Web Portal for all things related to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education in North Carolina
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RFP released this month for 2026 Digital Learning Initiative Instructional Innovation Grants ↴
Applications for NCDPI DLI Grants due by June 18
The State Board of Education recently approved the Instructional Innovation Grant, which will benefit North Carolina public schools’ Digital Learning Initiative (DLI). This competitive grant opportunity is designed to support North Carolina Public School Units (PSUs) in advancing innovative digital teaching and learning through high quality professional learning and purposeful instructional technology integration. Access Grant Instructions. Up to $1.2 million in grants funded by the General Assembly will be available to school districts, charter schools, lab schools and regional schools during the 2026-27 school year. Read full story.
Please enjoy your e-Update. Connect with us to share your feedback.
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Opportunities ↴
Explore NC STEM Center
 Do you have an opportunity or program doing great STEM work in North Carolina? Here's how you can post and promote your special events, camps, and afterschool programs all year long. We invite you to create an account to get started today!
→ Read more
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STEM Spotlight ↴
Mysteries of the Unknown
 Become a scientist for the week! This Science Summer Camp program for grades 4-5 has four, full-week sessions this summer starting June 15 at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. Use the link for more details and registration.
→ Read more
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Student STEM Enrichment Program ↴
Application window for SSEP grants now open through June 10
 The Student STEM Enrichment Program (SSEP) through the Burroughs Wellcome Fund supports diverse programs with a common goal: to enable primary and secondary students to participate in creative, hands-on STEM activities for K-12 students and pursue inquiry-based exploration in North Carolina. These awards provide up to $60,000 per year for three years. The application window is now open through June. 10. → Learn more
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Orange High’s Jason Johnson named 2026 National Principal of the Year ↴
Triangle education leader receives NASSP top honor
 Jason Johnson, Orange High School principal and 2025 Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the Year, has been named the 2026 National High School Principal of the Year. The National Association of Secondary School Principals made the announcement last week in Washington, D.C. → Read more
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North Carolina Gov. Stein proclaims April as STEM Education Month ↴
NC Science Festival still in full swing this month
 Gov. Josh Stein declared April 2026 STEM Education Month in North Carolina in conjunction with the NC Science Festival. This proclamation kicked off the 16th annual statewide celebration of science. There are still many events planned now through April 30. → Find an event
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Many state and private colleges are moving toward 90-credit undergrad degree options ↴
UNC System weighs pros, cons of accelerated bachelor's degree
 The UNC System reportedly is exploring a 90-credit undergraduate degree (reduced from the traditional 120 credits) to offer a faster, cheaper path to a bachelor’s degree, targeting quicker workforce entry. This "three-year" model aims to reduce tuition costs for students, but it faces scrutiny over maintaining academic rigor, potential accreditation challenges, and reduced student exploration. → Full story
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Better together ↴
NC Tweener Fund makes 14 investments
 There's a new entrepreneurial venture that involves a partnership between NC IDEA, the Durham-based foundation that promotes entrepreneurship, and the NC Tweener Fund. Earlier this year, NC IDEA committed $4 million over five years to the NC Tweener Fund with plans for investments across the state. This week, the NC Tweener Fund announced $700,000 in investments to 14 North Carolina startups. → Read more
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May 13-14, 2026 ↴
TechFest 2026
Get ready for Techfest, NC TECH's newest statewide experience that is scheduled next month in Durham.. → More |
June 11, 2026 ↴
Soar into STEM
SOAR into STEM: Lead the Adventure, hosted by CESTEM, is set for June 11 at UNCW’s Watson College of Education. → More |
Aug. 3-4, 2026 ↴
Kenan Fellows
Save the Date for Kenan Fellows' annual Reigniting Teacher Passion conference on Aug. 3-4 in Chapel Hill. → More |
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Have STEM News or Event to share?
The NC STEM Center is a project of the NC STEM Learning Network, a statewide effort through the North Carolina Science, Mathematics & Technology (SMT) Education Center in collaboration with North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, North Carolina Community College System, and UNC General Administration.
Thanks for your continued support! |
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