NEOSTEM Now | March 13, 2026
National, State Data Point to Slow Pace of Pandemic Recovery
While student learning returned to a more typical pace during the 2021-22 school year, new national and state data reveal that achievement still lags significantly behind pre-pandemic levels, suggesting a full recovery may extend well beyond the availability of federal relief funds. Learn More
Labor market impacts of AI: A new measure and early evidence
By analyzing real-world usage data from millions of Claude conversations, Anthropic’s research suggests that while AI is increasingly used for professional tasks in high-wage occupations, it is currently functioning more as a tool for human augmentation than as a primary driver of unemployment. Learn More
Score with STEM with the Cleveland Cavs on March 27
Join us on March 27 from 10 AM–1 PM for a free, hands-on STEM experience designed to connect students and families to the real-world science, tech, and engineering behind the game. From interactive exhibits on the arena concourse to meeting local STEM pros, it’s a day of discovery you won’t want to miss. Register for FREE STEM Day here.
SWS Exhibitor Logistics
We recently met with our incredible lineup of exhibitors to finalize the logistics for Score with STEM at Rocket Arena. We are so excited to transform the arena into a high-energy “classroom” for thousands of students on March 27th. See what you missed.
Complete the Exhibitor Logistics Form by March 18th for your table needs.
Invite others to the fun! Download the flyer to share the details of March 27
Legislative Tracker: 2026 State AI in Education Bills
FutureEd is currently tracking 49 bills across 23 states that aim to integrate artificial intelligence into K-12 classrooms, with a primary focus on establishing graduation requirements for AI literacy and implementing governance guardrails to protect student privacy. Learn More
Midwest Logistics Enters Next Phase with Multi-State Automated Trucking Deployment
Ohio and Indiana have launched the second phase of a federally funded initiative to test automated freight technology in real-world Midwest weather conditions, aiming to enhance roadway safety and driver support through advanced collision-avoidance systems. Learn More
Rising Deficits Push More Ohio Districts Toward State Fiscal Oversight
Following Barberton City Schools’ recent entry into “fiscal caution,” Ohio school leaders are warning that stagnant state funding and rising operational costs could force a growing number of districts into state-monitored fiscal oversight. Learn More
Ohio Awards $92 Million in Grants to Boost Workforce Housing Across Five Communities
The Ohio Department of Development has allocated nearly $100 million in funding to support large-scale housing projects in Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, Mansfield, and Perrysburg, aimed at increasing affordable options for the state’s growing workforce. Learn More
Upcoming Events & Resources
Nominations Open for the League of Innovative Schools
The League of Innovative Schools is seeking recommendations for its 2026-27 cohort to identify forward-thinking superintendents and school districts committed to collaborative innovation and leadership. Learn More
OSLN Announces CTE+STEM Innovation Lab for Ohio Educators
Ohio career-technical educators in grades 7–12 can apply for this immersive, three-day summer workshop in Columbus to strengthen STEM pedagogy and design thinking within their classrooms at no cost. Learn More
Launch Your Career in Cleveland’s Tourism Industry
The Cleveland Travel & Tourism Workforce Initiative offers job seekers a free, self-paced “Work in Travel” toolkit designed to provide the training and certifications necessary to access professional pathways in the local travel and hospitality sector. Learn More
Helping Columbus Seniors Start Strong: College Dorm Room Kits
The SOUL Foundation is working to equip 100 graduating Columbus City Schools seniors with “Dorm Room Kits” full of college essentials, ensuring these local scholars walk onto campus this fall prepared, confident, and supported by their community. Learn More
ITEEA 88th Conference “Making Waves: Advancing Technology, Engineering, and STEM Education.”
The 2026 conference in Virginia Beach will convene technology, engineering, and STEM educators for hands-on learning, classroom-ready ideas, and cutting-edge professional development. It’s a space to explore innovations in engineering design, CTE, and STEM. March 25-28, 2026 Register Here
IBM Opens Global RFP for AI-Driven Solutions in Education and Workforce Development
Non-profit and governmental organizations are invited to apply for the IBM Sustainability Accelerator’s latest cohort, which provides pro bono access to IBM’s AI and hybrid cloud technologies to scale programs focused on the future of work and equitable education. Learn More
Supporting Our Students
While we do not charge an exhibitor fee, we are still fundraising to provide lunch vouchers for students from underserved communities. If your organization is able to contribute, please contribute by clicking here.