Idaho STEM Action Foundation Launches New Award to Celebrate Out-of-School STEM Educators 

Some of Idaho’s most impactful STEM learning experiences happen far beyond the traditional classroom. From libraries and museums to afterschool programs, summer camps, and community organizations, educators across the state are helping young people discover science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in hands-on, engaging ways. 

To recognize those efforts, the Idaho STEM Action Foundation has opened nominations for the 2026 Idaho Out-of-School (OST) STEM Educator Award, a new award designed to celebrate an educator who goes above and beyond to inspire youth and expand access to STEM learning outside the K-12 classroom. 

The award honor educators working in informal learning environments who demonstrate exceptional commitment to STEM engagement in out-of-school time settings. The recipient will receive a $500 cash prize and support to attend the Power Up Together FACE Pre-Conference in Sun Valley on October 28^th, 2026 where they will be recognized for their contributions. 

The award also reflects the evolving mission of the Idaho STEM Action Foundation and its commitment to filling critical gaps in STEM education across the state. 

Understanding the Idaho STEM Action Foundation 

One common misconception is that the Idaho STEM Action Foundation is the same organization as the former STEM Action Center. While the names are similar, the organizations served different purposes. The STEM Action Center was a state government agency focused on improving STEM education and strengthening pathways to STEM careers. The Center no longer exists following legislative changes, and the Foundation now operates independently as a nonprofit organization.  

Although the Foundation originally worked alongside the Center, it separated and became a standalone nonprofit in 2025 to pursue its own mission of supporting STEM education statewide. Today, the Foundation focuses on addressing unmet needs, creating opportunities, and supporting organizations, students, and educators wherever gaps exist in Idaho’s STEM ecosystem. 

That work is already taking shape. In recent months, the Foundation has provided travel grants to help students attend STEM competitions and has begun developing new awards and funding opportunities. Upcoming initiatives include programs that support youth participation in technology fields, industry partnerships, and school-based innovation projects. Many of these efforts will provide funding directly back to schools and community organizations. 

The new Out-of-School STEM Educator Award is a natural extension of that mission. By spotlighting educators who inspire curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving beyond the classroom, the Foundation aims to elevate the importance of informal STEM learning and recognize the people making a difference in communities across Idaho. 

Nominations for the 2026 Idaho Out-of-School STEM Educator Award are open through September 14, 2026. For the educators introducing students to coding in a library, leading robotics activities after school, coordinating STEM camps, or creating hands-on learning experiences in their communities, this award is an opportunity to celebrate the critical role they play in shaping Idaho’s future STEM workforce. 

Submit nominations for a peer or for yourself!  

Contact [email protected] for questions.