STEM Opportunities in Prison Settings
STEM-The NSF definition of STEM fields includes mathematics, natural sciences, engineering, computer and information sciences – psychology, economics, sociology, and political science.
Carceral – of, relating to, or suggesting a jail or prison.
STEM-OPS is an NSF Eddie Bernice Johnson INCLUDES Alliance working to improve Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning opportunities in prisons and supporting access to STEM (broadly defined) for those who are directly impacted by the carceral system.
Upon his release from prison Stan wrote a captivating story, “From Prison Cells to PhD,” detailing how resilience and inner strength can be combined to overcome mountainous barriers to reach one’s full potential.
Our Vision: All persons impacted by the carceral system are able, and encouraged, to pursue a culturally responsive and equitable high-quality STEM education and career.
The sySTEM Impacted Podcast
A podcast developed by the STEM Opportunities in Prison Settings (STEM-OPS) NSF-funded project highlighting the need for STEM opportunities made available to the directly impacted both inside and outside of correctional facilities, and how these opportunities have changed the lives of the directly impacted.Music
Prod. by: Wayne “Mport-P” Carroll Jr for Presidential Block Development Group (PBDG)
WHAT DO THESE FACTS MAKE YOU THINK ABOUT?
FACTS ABOUT STEM
While women constitute almost 50% of the labor market, there are only 28% of women in STEM fields as opposed to 72% of men.
FACTS ABOUT INCARCERATION
Women’s incarceration has grown at twice the pace of men’s incarceration in recent decades, and has disproportionately been located in local jails.
Why STEM?
STEM education in the United States offers access to in-demand, well-paying jobs, including but not limited to civic participation, entrepreneurship, policy, and social sciences.
Not only are STEM jobs plentiful in the United States these days, but they also usually pay better than non-STEM jobs, helping people build better lives for themselves and their families.
Why STEM in prisons?
Featured Resources
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We extend our gratitude to all individuals who contributed their time and efforts to the STEM-OPS Working Group projects. Your dedication and hard work formed the foundation of the STEM-OPS toolkits, and you can access them here.
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