Gov. Kim Reynolds signed an order over the weekend that directs the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council to broaden access to science, technology, engineering, and math education for all Iowa students. The order, announced during STEM Day at the Iowa State Fair, calls for ensuring “every Iowa student in every geographic location and from every background has access to cutting-edge educational opportunities.” The STEM Advisory Council was created in 2011 by former Gov. Terry Branstad and chaired by then-Lt. Gov. Reynolds with the intent to build a K-12 talent pipeline for STEM careers. Reynolds says, “Over the past 14 years, the state has provided cutting-edge STEM materials, programs, and work-based learning opportunities for countless Iowa students. We’ve also empowered STEM teachers to transform the classroom, and we’ve honored their hard-won accomplishments. Even so, the nature of STEM continues to change, and with it the nature of work. Advancements in AI and IT are impacting virtually every career in the market. If we want the next generations of Iowans to be prepared for life outside the classroom, we need to begin equipping them now.” The order also sets goals for the council, including expanding work-based learning, enhancing career exploration pathways for students, and recommending policy changes to strengthen STEM instruction. A link to Reynolds’ executive order is included below.
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