Programs
The Delaware Foundation for Science and Mathematics Education funds, recognizes and connects the classroom educators who teach STEM across the state.
Professional development
STEM ConnectED Day
On Delaware’s statewide professional development day, educators spend a morning or afternoon behind the scenes at local STEM businesses and organizations. They meet the people doing the work, see STEM in practice, and take ideas back to their classrooms. Run with the Delaware Department of Education and host organizations across the state.
For all educators: public, charter, private, homeschool, higher ed
Credit: 3 hours DOE Professional Development per session
When: Statewide Professional Development Day (varies)
Grant
Mini Grants
Small grants for STEM costs that districts and agencies don’t cover, which teachers often end up paying themselves: classroom materials, visiting experts, registration and conference fees, software and subscriptions. DFSME funds upcoming projects and reimburses recent ones.
For K–12 classroom STEM educators
Amount$100–$500
Reviewed monthly
Grant
Seed Grants
Partial funding for new STEM programs, or for proven programs moving into a new part of the state or reaching a new population. We look for research-driven work with measurable outcomes that others can adopt and that can sustain itself.
Recognition
Shining Light Award
Recognizes Delaware STEM educators in classrooms, informal settings and community programs who kindle a spark in students and serve as a model for their peers. Anyone can nominate. Honorees receive an award, a $100 gift card and a Mini Maglite, courtesy of program sponsor Chesapeake Utilities.
Art Contest
The Air We Share
An environmental awareness art contest for Delaware elementary classrooms. Entrants design an art piece showing how our actions can improve our community’s air quality. Hosted by DFSME’s CREATES task team (Careers, Resources, Education, And Technology for Environmental Solutions).
Initiatives we host as fiscal sponsor
DFSME is the home for two statewide initiatives. Each sets its own goals and is run by its own leadership.
Their results are reported separately and are not included in DFSME’s program figures.
Million Women Mentors Delaware
The Delaware chapter of the national Million Women Mentors movement, which encourages girls and women to pursue and stay in STEM careers through mentoring. It hosts Delaware’s annual celebration of women and girls in STEM, as well as Engineering Your Tomorrow.
Delaware STEM Council
Works to raise STEM literacy for every Delaware student, including those who go on to careers outside STEM. The Delaware STEM Educator Awards recognize elementary, middle and high school teachers and teams, in public and private schools and community programs, for innovation and excellence in STEM teaching. Now in its 12th year. Apply
Questions about a program?
Email info@dfsme.org with the program name in the subject line, or call 302-397-0034.