North Dickinson County School is among 17 recipients of MiSTEM Network grants that will help students gain more exposure to skills that are tied to high-demand careers.

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity this month announced the first step in its expanded $1.75 million Playbook Mini Grant program, awarding $800,000 to 17 public education agencies. The funding will support the expansion of Place-, Project- and Problem-based (3P) STEM learning, giving students greater access to hands-on educational experiences that prepare them for science, technology, engineering and math careers.

The maximum award under the grant program is $50,000.

The 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, LEO said in a news release.

In addition to direct grant awards, the remaining funds will be used to provide professional learning and hands-on support for participating educators.

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 public-private commitment to preparing Michigan students for science, technology, engineering, arts and math 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.”

Other grant recipients in the Upper Peninsula are Engadine Consolidated Schools and Chassell Township Schools.

“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.”

The investment involves a public-private collaboration among General Motors, LEO’s MiSTEM Network, Michigan State University, Beyond Consulting and MTEC SmartZone to 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 the funds in alignment with MiSTEM’s statewide goals.