The Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council recently named two local school districts to the STEM Businesses Engaging Students and Teachers (BEST) and High Demand (HD) Program. The Carroll Community School District and Coon Rapids-Bayard Community School District were both selected for the program and will receive $40,000 each to implement work-based learning with a focus on STEM fields and high-demand skills. BEST + HD was created to bring schools and businesses together to prepare students for life after graduation through real workplace experiences and showcase companies and career opportunities. The grant also provides students with distinct educational pathways toward future success after high school. CHS Principal Kourtney Abbotts says, “[We are] elated to be chosen as a 2022-2023 STEM BEST Program Grant recipient. Students will have the flexibility to move between pathways as their plans evolve and grow their knowledge base of STEM. Our vision is that all students will graduate with a high school diploma and a secondary credential. This STEM grant will allow for us to add more opportunities for students to receive certification and hands-on learning experiences that are meaningful for their future endeavors.” Districts are given the flexibility to utilize the grant funding in a manner that is most beneficial to their students, such as the introduction of a student-led small business, additional curriculum, or other programs. Full implementation will be in the fall semester of the 2023-2024 school year.