Why STEM Matters

• Global dependence on STEM competency to advance technology, healthcare, and human well-being.
• ​Preparation for careers in Science, Technology Engineering, Math, and Medicine.
• STEM occupations are expected to grow 13%, compared to 9% for non-STEM occupations.
• The annual salary for STEM occupations is $87,570—roughly twice the $45,700 earned by non-STEM occupations.

STEM in Mississippi

• Overall, Mississippi has the country’s highest rate of poverty and one of the lowest education performances.
• Compared to students from other areas of the country, most ​MS-trained high school students enter college unprepared 
  ​in STEM and critical thinking.
• First-generation college students from a racial/ethnic minority group and low-income family, a common MS demographic, are
  ​16 times less likely to be ready for STEM coursework in college.

Arise MS Goals

• Improve STEM competency in:
  •  Disadvantaged students in the critical window of grades 9-12
  • Teachers of disadvantaged students grades 9-12
  • Teachers-in-training with the potential to change future STEM education
• Implement research-based learning experiences (RBLEs) as "interventions" to encourage students from areas of poverty and underrepresented groups to pursue STEM paths in college.