“What do you want to be when you grow up?”
We see this question pop up quite a bit in back-to-school social media posts. Most children will pick a dream occupation, real or not (dragon veterinarian, anyone?), while a few will say they want to be happy or helpful. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) would like youth to consider careers in science and health and has provided funding to make this possible. Its Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA) program supports outreach projects for preK – 12th grade students and teachers in formal and informal education settings. Rockman et al Cooperative (REA) has been an external evaluator for SEPA programs since 2006 and is an active member of the SEPA community.
Research shows that early science experiences strongly influence children’s decision to pursue later scientific careers. Our evaluations have demonstrated how SEPA programs improve youths’ STEM knowledge, skills, and confidence. Students have learned how science can make a difference in peoples’ lives and that they, too, can get jobs in science and health. Mentoring from trusted adults and peers, along with access to cutting-edge lab activities and innovative curriculum help make these outcomes possible.
SEPA has three application cycles per year. Upcoming deadlines are September 25th, 2026, January 25th 2027, and May 25th, 2027. Please see the solicitation for more details and visit the SEPA Community website for examples of funded projects.
Join us at SciEd 2026
SEPA program officers will be speaking at SciEd 2026, the annual meeting for NIH science education projects. There will also be a panel of students, educators, and parents who will talk about the impact that SciEd programs have had on them. This year’s meeting is virtual, and is being held Tuesday, September 29th through Thursday, October 1st. Anyone interested in preK–12 science and health education is welcome to attend.
If you would like to learn more about the SEPA program or are seeking an evaluator for your proposal, please contact us. We’d be happy to schedule a complimentary 30 minute meeting to discuss your ideas. Let’s work together to help the next generation grow up with STEM in their sights!
References:
Maltese, A. V., & Tai, R. H. (2010). Eyeballs in the fridge: Sources of early interest in science. International Journal of Science Education, 32(5), 669–685. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500690902792385
Tai, R. H., Liu, C. Q., Maltese, A. V., & Fan, X. (2006). Planning early for careers in science. Science, 312, Article 5777. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1128690