The STEM Initiative BSA’s Newest Program Science Technology Engineering Mathematics
Purpose of the STEM Initiative Enhance interest in the STEM fields Bring a Scouting focus to STEM Increase the value of Scouting Overall Structure Optional awards in each program Two tiers of awards ~ Nova (fun STEM activities) ~ Supernova (high achievement)
Cub Scouts Science Everywhere Tech Talk Swing! 1, 2, 3, Go! (More in development) Each includes a STEM Belt Loop or Pin Boy Scouts Shoot! Start Your Engines Whoosh! Designed to Crunch (More in development) Each includes a STEM Merit Badge Venturers Launch! Power Up Hang On! Numbers Don’t Lie (More in development) Each includes a STEM Exploration Nova Awards
Sample Nova Activities
Supernova Awards Bear/Wolf Cub Scout Webelos Scout Boy Scouts Venturers Dr. Luis W. Alvarez Dr. Charles Townes Dr. Bernard Harris Thomas Alva Edison Dr. Albert Einstein Dr. Sally Ride Wright Brothers
Sample Supernova Activities
Counselor & Mentor Qualifications Nova Counselor: STEM familiarity, comfort Supernova Mentor: STEM expertise required Adult Leader Support National Web Site: scouting.org/stem Council Web Site:svmbc.org/stem/ Resource Web Site: bsastemresources.com Nova Guidebooks:
Local STEM Resources (see bsastemresources.com) Local STEM Destinations Award Checklists/Workbooks Supernova Mentor Roster STEM Consultants Roster Orientations and Trainings STEM Events for Youth
Would You Like to Learn More? STEM Activity Ideas, Local Destinations, Links bsastemresources.com Council STEM Events, Trainings, Information svmbc.org/stem/