NEOSTEM Now | March 27, 2026
TODAY – Score with STEM with the Cleveland Cavs
Join us TODAY 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. Invite others to the fun! Download the flyer to share the details of March 27
Grade 3-8 students need updated literacy skills supports, report says
The Advanced Education Research & Development Fund (AERDF) released a report arguing that students in grades 3–8 require continued, explicit instruction in advanced foundational literacy skills—such as multisyllabic decoding and morphology—challenging the traditional belief that reading instruction should end after the 3rd grade. Learn More
Closing the Affordability Gap in Afterschool and Summer Programming
As federal funding becomes less certain, education experts are calling for a coordinated effort between providers, policymakers, and philanthropists to expand access to high-quality out-of-school programs for the 24 million children currently priced out of enrollment. Learn More
White House Releases National AI Policy Framework
On March 20, the White House unveiled a sweeping legislative framework built on seven pillars. It recommends that Congress embed AI training into existing education and workforce programs rather than creating new standalone agencies. Crucially, it urges the preemption of state-level AI laws to create a single federal standard, though it advises against preempting state laws specifically protecting children online. Learn More
New $30M biotech training center to be built in New Albany
The Ohio Life Sciences Association, in partnership with JobsOhio and the city of New Albany, is building a new $30 million, 34,000-square-foot biotech training center to develop a skilled workforce for the region’s rapidly expanding life sciences industry. Learn More
Upcoming Events & Resources
National AI Literacy Day 2026: Synchronous Professional Development Sessions
Today, on March 27, 2026, National AI Literacy Day will host a series of live, synchronous professional development sessions featuring expert-led workshops on ethical AI, classroom integration strategies, and student-led town halls. Learn More
DOE Genesis Mission: $293 Million for AI in Science
The Department of Energy (DOE) posted a Request for Application (DE-FOA-0003612) on March 17 to fund teams using AI to solve 20+ national challenges in biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, and nuclear energy. Grant Size: Phase I ($500k–$750k); Phase II ($6M–$15M). Deadline: Phase I apps/Phase II LOIs due April 28, 2026. Learn More
Free Cleveland Clinic on-demand career pathway sessions available to students and educators
The Cleveland Clinic Center for Youth and College Education is offering free, on-demand Connected Career Rounds sessions that provide students and educators with an inside look at healthcare career paths, including salary data, job growth projections, and educational requirements. 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
Making Sense of Data From Different Sources | Bellwether Event
This Bellwether event explores how education leaders can reconcile conflicting data points from various sources to better track student outcomes and improve classroom instruction. Learn More
Fostering STEM Institute: Teacher Edition
The Fostering STEM Institute is a free, year-long professional development program for Ohio educators designed to advance STEM instructional practices, build school-wide STEM culture, and develop teacher leadership through immersive school visits and industry partnerships. Learn More
Empowering Rural Youth: BellXcel Launches “Rural Innovations” Webinar Series
BellXcel is hosting the remaining two sessions of its Rural Innovations webinar series, featuring peer-led discussions on Data Collection (April 30) and Impact Reporting (May 28) designed specifically for rural youth program practitioners. Learn More
DeBruce Foundation Graduation Toolkit
The DeBruce Foundation has released The Graduation Toolkit, a suite of free digital resources designed to help new graduates identify their professional strengths and navigate the transition into the workforce. 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.