WBKB 11 | Benjamin Raymond
LANSING, Mich. — Michigan has awarded $800,000 in grants to 17 public education agencies across the state to expand innovative STEM learning programs that give students hands-on experience preparing for high-demand careers.
The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity's MiSTEM Network announced the funding as the first phase of its expanded $1.75 million Playbook Mini Grant program. The grants will support the expansion of Place-, Project- and Problem-based (3P) STEM learning, providing students with greater access to educational experiences that connect classroom learning to real-world applications.
The program expansion was made possible through a $1 million contribution from General Motors, which builds on MiSTEM's existing $750,000 program. The partnership reflects a commitment between public and private sectors to prepare Michigan students for STEM careers.
"Every student deserves the chance to build strong STEAM foundations early, because these skills open doors to the high growth careers that can shape their future," said David Massaron, GM Vice President of Corporate Citizenship. "GM's partnership with the MiSTEM Network expands hands on, real world learning experiences that help young people across Michigan see themselves as future engineers, problem solvers and innovators."
The remaining funds from the $1.75 million program will provide professional learning and hands-on support for participating educators while testing and refining the MiSTEM Playbooks to ensure sustainable impact across the state.
Megan Schrauben, MiSTEM Executive Director, emphasized the program's role in workforce development.
"By investing in STEM education, Michigan is investing in our future workforce," Schrauben said. "MiSTEM will continue to provide updates and outcomes of this partnership, as we work together to strengthen STEM education across the state and close talent gaps."
The funding directly supports Michigan's state STEM strategy of 3P Learning aligned with the state's strategic industries. Grant recipients will use the funds to expand teacher training, student programming and community partnerships while helping to diversify access to STEM pathways, particularly in underserved and rural areas.
The 17 grant recipients include school districts and educational agencies from across Michigan:
Gull Lake Community Schools
Buchanan Community Schools-Buchanan High School
Ypsilanti Community Schools and Lincoln Consolidated Schools
Wayne-Westland Community Schools
Utica Community Schools
Oakland Schools
Kearsley Community Schools
Eaton Regional Educational Service Agency
Kent Intermediate School District
Cadillac Area Public Schools
Bay City Public Schools
Brown City Community Schools
Alcona Community Schools
Charlevoix-Emmet ISD
Engadine Consolidated Schools
North Dickinson County School
Chassell Township Schools
The initiative represents a strategic collaboration among General Motors, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity's MiSTEM Network, Michigan State University, Beyond Consulting and MTEC SmartZone. The partnership aims to build dynamic learning environments that connect students with real-world industry experiences.
Dr. Stefanie Marshall of Michigan State University's College of Education provides overall programmatic oversight, instructional support and mini grant evaluation. Beyond Consulting handles operational management, data assessments and technological support, while MTEC SmartZone, a nonprofit innovation hub, coordinates fund administration in alignment with MiSTEM's statewide goals.
The shared commitment to advancing STEM opportunities across Michigan aims to build a stronger, more equitable future for students, educators and communities statewide.