Middle school girls interested in STEM careers will get an extra boost in support from the University of Oregon, thanks to a national science grant. The money will go toward after school programs in the 4J school district.
Middle school is right around the time when most girls lose interest in science, says U of O researcher Brandy Todd. She’s the director of the Science Program to Inspire Creativity and Enthusiasm, or SPICE.
TODD: “All kids tend to come out with lower interest on average. From beginning of middle school to end of middle school. But it’s much more dramatic among girls, among kids of color, you know anybody who doesn’t fit that default idea of what a scientist is.”
Todd says the $3,000 grant will fund stipends for undergraduate STEM students who’ll work in after school programs. The idea is to keep girls interested in science through mentorship and engaging projects. The Society for Science & the Public awarded 59 other advocates from across the country.
