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Maine STEM Collaborative


Question:

What strategies can we use to effectively communicate broad messages about the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education to a wide range of Maine audiences using our limited resources?

Maine STEM Collaborative

The Maine STEM Collaborative, begun in 2007, is a statewide partnership of education, research, business, government, and non-profit sectors who have come together to foster the improvement of STEM education in the state. 

Mission: The Maine STEM Collaborative works to increase the quality of STEM education, aspirations, and awareness in the state through the integration, coordination, and promotion of efforts.

Vision: Maine will have a strong educational foundation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics that will propel the state toward economic prosperity.

History:

2007:  Collaborative began under MMSA with Steering Committee leadership

2008-2012: Sponsored statewide STEM Summits (2008, 2010, March 2012 pending)

2009-2010: Assisted in LD-1101 STEM legislation and as a result, commissioned four studies on the status of STEM in Maine

2010-2011: Engaged in two strategic planning retreats

2011: Current membership representation from 60 Maine organizations

Programs:

  • “Big Picture": Serve as an umbrella organization to foster STEM awareness & collaboration on statewide level; advocate for STEM policy & decision-making; serve as “go to” organization for information on STEM; network with national STEM efforts.
  • Specific Activities:  Sponsor statewide STEM Summits (bi-annual); support cooperative programs & grant proposals between members; engage in legislative advocacy; landscape studies on STEM in Maine; communications about STEM in Maine (newsletter, brochure, talking points hand-out; summit report, landscape study reports;  www.mainestem.org).

Financial Overview:

The Maine STEM Collaborative is an affiliation of the Maine Mathematics and Science Alliance, which serves as the fiscal agent.  The Collaborative seeks support for specific programs and activities through fundraising efforts.  Significant volunteer support is provided by members.

Sample Annual Budget:

Bi-annual STEM Summit:  $30,000                                  

MMSA Program Administrator:  $10,000

Landscape Study on STEM in ME:  $10,000                         

Communications:  $10,000

Communication Goals:

  • Maximize communication efforts on current shoestring budget and plan for future as additional resources become available.
  • An effectively structured communications strategy would support our implementation of additional programs that will help to meet our new objectives.

Communication Challenges:

  • Diverse target audiences needing different message versions and delivery mechanisms.
  • How to enhance the overall STEM dialogue activity in the state in a meaningful way.
  • Create greater awareness, knowledge, and understanding for decision-making.

Communication Strengths:

  • Have a Publicity Committee and dedication of Steering Committee and General Members.
  • Potential to increase financial resources for this effort.
  • Communications included in strategic planning; aware of need for structured approach.

See the presentation

Ideas from the brainstorming sessions

Mainebiz article