 Exceptional STEM educators throughout the state are making a difference every day by getting students ready for exciting careers that are in high demand. Their enthusiasm for science, technology, engineering and mathematics is shaping the future by equipping the next generation of Iowans.
Does that sound like a teacher you know?
The Iowa STEM Teacher Award, sponsored by Google, recognizes leadership and dedication that increases student interest in, and awareness of, science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The award is given to one teacher from each of Iowa’s six STEM regions. Recipients receive $1,500 for their classroom and $1,500 for personal use.
Eligible nominees are:
- Licensed, full-time, PK-12 Iowa teachers who incorporate science, technology, engineering or mathematics and related disciplines in public or non-public school classrooms.
- Full-time teachers who spend at least 75% of their working hours (approximately 30 hours, minimum) in the classroom–both virtually and in-person–interacting with students.
- Nominations for previous award recipients and self-nominations will not be accepted.
The deadline to submit nominations is September 30, 2026, at 4:59 p.m. Central Time. Recipients will be announced in early 2027.
The nomination process is simple and open to everyone, including fellow teachers, school administrators, students and parents. Visit educate.iowa.gov/STEM/TeacherAward to learn more and submit your nomination.
 The Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council came together this month at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Gardens to hear progress updates and gain a deeper understanding of the Council’s programs and initiatives.
Members learned about the Council’s flagship programs like STEM BEST® and the Iowa STEM Teacher Externships Program and dove into hands-on programming offered through the STEM Scale-Up Program. Members also heard from Iowa STEM team members about updates to the Youth Ambassador Group, the RAPIL scholarships for STEM professionals to STEM classrooms and efforts to honor and recognize Iowa educators through the Iowa STEM Teacher Award. This was the council’s first meeting since restructuring through Executive Order 14 in August 2025.
Council members representing both public and private sectors had several opportunities to share in discussions with each other and Iowa STEM staff about further opportunities and the future of STEM in Iowa
 Join STEM BEST® Program coordinator Tanya Hunt along with experienced STEM BEST® Program educator partners and colleagues for a virtual Idea Lab on Wednesday, September 2. This come-and-go virtual workshop will allow attendees to connect with those who have successfully developed innovative work-based learning experiences, learn tips and tricks to make the application process go smoothly, brainstorm partnerships, ask questions and leave with practical feedback and inspiration. Bring your ideas or come ready to be inspired!
STEM BEST® Program award applications for new and returning schools will open Sep. 1. Applications will be accepted in IowaGrants through Nov. 3. The STEM BEST® Program awards up to $50,000 with a 2:1 required match to K-12 public and private schools in Iowa to build long-lasting schools + business partnerships through authentic learning experiences. Teachers and industry professionals work side-by-side to craft curriculum and projects that help students develop high-demand skills and expose them to pathways of opportunity, homing in on interests and potential career opportunities.
To learn more visit the STEM BEST® Program webpage or email program coordinator Tanya Hunt at tanya.hunt@iowa.gov.
 The countdown to launch is on! In less than 70 days, hundreds of educators, industry leaders, policymakers, and STEM advocates from across Iowa will gather in Des Moines for the annual Iowa STEM Summit.
The Iowa STEM Summit is a day for sharing bold ideas and innovative strategies, for educators and business partners to come together around the shared goal of creating better STEM education opportunities for Iowa students and to spark conversation and connection that ultimately strengthens Iowa’s future workforce. Plan to join us November 6 for this full day event.
Registration is required and is expected to open in mid-September.
 STEMsights is written by members of the Iowa Governor's STEM Advisory Council’s Youth Ambassador group. This is their space to share insight and ideas on STEM events and initiatives important to Iowa students, written by Iowa students.
August guest authors and Iowa STEM Youth Ambassadors: Lauren Rouse, Avika Rastogi, Ava Courtney, Elle Wernimont, Ellison Riney, Claire Lu, Arya Ravikumar
As students head back to school, balancing academics, activities, friendships, and personal time can quickly become overwhelming. As Iowa STEM Youth Ambassadors, we are sharing some tips for staying organized, making the most of every opportunity and taking care of yourself along the way.
YA Tip: Stay on Schedule
Balancing activities, academics, and extracurriculars can feel overwhelming throughout the school year, often leaving students feeling short on time. Scheduling and calendar apps can be a huge help, but it is important to be proactive in checking these applications too. For instance, we recommend making it a habit to check your schedule regularly, such as before going to bed, to avoid smaller tasks getting forgotten as the school year gets busier. Turning on reminders for these applications can also set you up for success.
YA Tip: Find a good mentor
As classes get more challenging, students may find themselves with their questions, leading to confusion and lack of understanding. Asking a trusted mentor the hard questions will get you a lot further than trying to be independent. If students understand the importance of reaching out and leaning on their network, it will make more pathways feel accessible and achievable.
YA Tip: Find balance
As the school year progresses, it can become physically or mentally overwhelming, leading students to “burnout” or struggle to keep up with activities and academics. Alongside building routines and schedules, it is important for students to assess whether they can realistically keep up with their commitments. Taking breaks, spacing out demanding activities and finding ways to reduce stress can help students maintain a healthy balance throughout the school year.
As we all settle into the new school year, it’s beneficial to employ strategies that stay organized, manage our time effectively and prioritize our well-being. Having good time management, learning where and/or when to ask for help, and prioritizing self-care are all major components to becoming the best version of ourselves when school is in session. We hope that these tips help make the school year feel a little bit less stressful.
Iowa Governor's STEM Advisory Council
Iowa Department of Education
214 East Bartlett Hall
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0298
515-335-1531
info@IowaSTEM.org
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