Peter Everitt CCC STEM Coordinator

 STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. STEM is part of an initiative the Boy Scouts of America has taken on to encourage the natural curiosity of youth members and their sense of wonder about these fields through existing programs. From archery to welding, Scouts can't help but enjoy the wide range of STEM-related activities. STEM was not started by BSA, ExxonMobile started the initiative to encourage youth to consider careers in science and technologies.

 To support the STEM initiative, the BSA developed the Nova Awards program so that youth members have fun and receive recognition for their efforts. It is an extension of the BSA program activities and the importance we place on recognition for completing a job well done.  By working with an adult counselor or mentor, the various modules allow them to explore the basic principles of STEM and discover how fun and fascinating STEM can be.  The Supernova awards are offered for those who enjoy a super challenge. Discover how the Nova Awards program helps youth be "Prepared. For Life."

 A SuperNOVA Mentor is a person that wants to help an exceptional scout perform an exceptional activity in a STEM related area.  The scout youth has committed to spend time to understand a specific STEM topic and he/she needs a mentor that can help them achieve this challenge.  Scientist, engineers, technologist, and mathematicians are needed to provide knowledge and experience in these areas.

 The time required is based on the individual scout and no two are the same.  We have age appropriate requirements so the demand for cub scouts and venture scouts are very different - but all are rewarding experiences.

 The SuperNOVA Mentor must be 21 or older and be subject matter experts in a STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) field.  Be registered under the new SuperNOVA Mentor position code 52. Mentors will have background checks and are required to complete Youth Protection for the appropriate group.  This is a non-unit position and requires no fee.  In addition to the BSA Adult Registration form, mentors must complete the SuperNOVA Awards Mentor Information application.SuperNOVA Awards Mentor Information

 As a SuperNOVA Mentor, you should meet with the individual (remember two deep leadership) to review the requirements of the SuperNOVA award.  The mentor should make sure the scout understand the requirements and assist the scout in finding the right resources to be successful. Once the work is completed, it should be reviewed with the mentor to ensure it was completed satisfactory.  Many of the requirements require the discussion with the mentor about what they have learned.

 Once the scout has completed all of the requirement.  The unit leader and advancement committee member should be informed to ensure the records are updated and the proper recognition is provided.  For SuperNOVA award recipients, the Scout STEM/Nova Council Coordinator should also be informed.STEM/Nova Council Coordinator

 For Wolf and Bear Cub Scouts:  Dr. Louis Alvarez Supernova Award  For Webelos Scouts:  Dr. Charles H. Townes Supernova Award  For Boy Scouts:  Dr. Bernard Harris Supernova Bronze Award  Thomas Edison Supernova Silver Award  For Venturers:  Dr. Sally Ride Supernova Bronze Award  Wright Brothers Supernova Silver Award  Dr. Albert Einstein Supernova Gold Award

 Complete any three of the Boy Scout Nova awards. (Note: These may be done at any time after becoming a Boy Scout.)  Earn the Scholarship merit badge.  Earn four of the Supernova approved merit badges from the above list. (Note: These may be earned at any time after becoming a Boy Scout.)  Complete TWO Supernova activity topics, one each in two different STEM areas.  A Supernova activity topic is a two-part, hands-on, high-level activity related to one of the STEM fields. Part 1 involves research, preparation, set up,coordination, and/or organization. Part 2 involves analysis and reflection, culminating in the creation of a report in any one of the available format options. See the “Supernova Activity Topics” chapter.  Participate in a local, state, or national science fair or mathematics competition OR in any equally challenging STEM-oriented competition or workshop approved by your mentor. An example of this would be an X-Prize type competition.

BSA Main STEM Info ◦ Coastal Carolina Web Site ◦  Look for: Activities/STEM/NOVA Coastal Carolina Facebook Page ◦ Peter Everitt CCC STEM Coordinator