NEOSTEM Now | April 4, 2026
The 90/10 Gap: New Research Highlights Growing Disparities in Student Achievement Since 2005
A new study from the Annenberg Institute at Brown University reveals that the academic gap between America’s highest- and lowest-performing students has widened significantly over the last two decades, driven largely by stagnation among struggling learners. Learn More
Education researchers face a high-stakes choice
Following significant budget cuts and the dissolution of federal research agencies by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), education researchers are navigating a difficult dilemma: advocate publicly for the restoration of funding and data collections at the risk of potential professional retaliation. Learn More
New Policy Brief: Afterschool Programs are Essential Partners to Build AI Literacy and Proficiency
The Afterschool STEM Hub has released a new policy brief outlining recommendations for federal leaders to integrate afterschool programs as key partners in developing a future-ready, AI-literate workforce. Learn More
DeWine Announces $123 Million Investment to Spark Job Growth Across Ohio
Governor Mike DeWine has approved seven new economic development projects expected to create 1,328 jobs and retain 905 positions through more than $123.4 million in statewide investments. Learn More
The Algebra Advantage: Dual-Math Model in 8th Grade Drives Significant Learning Gains
New research from Stanford University and the University of Florida indicates that 8th graders who take Algebra 1 as an elective alongside their regular math course see nearly a full year of additional learning growth compared to peers in a single-course track. Learn More
Upcoming Events & Resources
NSF to Host Webinar for FINDERS FOUNDRY Program
On April 8, 2026, the National Science Foundation will host a webinar to introduce FINDERS FOUNDRY, a new initiative designed to help K-12 educators and researchers collaborate on AI-driven technologies that improve student learning outcomes. Learn More
NSF Launches TechAccess: AI-Ready America Initiative
The TechAccess: AI-Ready America program is a national initiative providing up to $1M per year for three years to establish coordination hubs in every state and territory, with the first round of full proposals due July 16, 2026, following a required Letter of Intent by June 16, 2026. Learn More
Broadening Participation in Tech: Join the 2026 NCWIT Summit
NCWIT has announced the agenda for its 2026 Summit, scheduled for June 1-2 at the University Memorial Center in Boulder, CO. This year’s event focuses on the structural shifts in computing education and the workforce, featuring sessions on AI ethics, neuro-inclusive cultures, and the future of CS. Learn More
Youth, AI, and the Relationships That Shape Them
The Rithm Project’s March 2026 report explores how AI impacts the social connections and mental well-being of young people, finding that while tools can support human relationships, more intimate AI use—such as talking to AI characters—poses higher risks to social health and connection. Learn More
Step Up to the Plate: Exhibit at the 2026 Cleveland Guardians STEM Days
Join NEOSTEM and the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field to inspire thousands of students through high-energy, hands-on activities that showcase your organization’s commitment to regional STEM learning and career pathways. Learn More
2026 Beyond100K Trends Report: Trends and Predictions That Are Defining STEM in 2026
This report outlines how the STEM education field is shifting from temporary pilot programs to permanent infrastructure by focusing on policy-driven financial support, communal mentorship models, operationalized belonging, and strategic AI literacy. Learn More
Vibe Coding 101: Building Educator Tools with Natural Language
This professional learning session from aiEDU introduces “vibe coding”—a natural-language, AI-driven development process—enabling educators to transform pedagogical ideas into custom apps, simulations, and interactive learning tools without traditional programming expertise. Learn More
CMSD Introduces Virtual Family Empowerment Sessions
The Cleveland Metropolitan School District’s Family Engagement on Demand platform is hosting a “Family Empowerment Session” on April 9th focused on effective test-taking strategies to help students manage time and reduce testing anxiety.
About NEOSTEM
NEOSTEM connects over 100 organizations working across education, business, and community sectors to make STEM equitable, exciting, and career-connected.
From in-school support to out-of-school enrichment, we’re building a regional talent pipeline, from kindergarten through career.
Visit www.neostem.org | Contact us at info@neostem.org| Support NEOSTEM