Gov. Kay Ivey announced Sept. 28 the creation of the Alabama STEM Council Seal of Approval, a new initiative designed to recognize high-quality STEM programs and events across the state.

Ivey made the announcement after hosting leaders of the Alabama STEM Council in her office. According to a news release from her office, the initiative is being launched in partnership with the Alabama STEM Council, part of the Alabama Department of Workforce.

“Alabama’s continued success depends on preparing our young people with the skills and experiences they need to pursue the opportunities of tomorrow,” Ivey said in the release. “The STEM Seal of Approval will help Alabama families identify outstanding programs while recognizing the organizations inspiring students to explore, learn and build bright futures right here in our state.”

The Seal of Approval will serve as a peer-reviewed mark of excellence for out-of-school STEM programs and periodic STEM events that demonstrate strong outcomes, consistent implementation and alignment with STEM best practices.

The designation is intended to help families identify trusted, high-value STEM learning opportunities while highlighting providers that are making a measurable impact in communities throughout Alabama.

Eligible applicants include individual STEM programs and recurring STEM events that have operated in Alabama for at least three years. Programs must be delivered by out-of-school-time organizations, including after-school programs, community-based initiatives, nonprofit organizations or summer programs.

The STEM Council’s website said the Seal is intended to recognize “established Alabama-based programs and recurring events that consistently provide impactful STEM enrichment and align with recognized best practices in STEM education.”

According to the website’s eligibility requirements, applications must focus on a specific STEM program or recurring STEM event rather than an entire organization. Eligible programs must be offered through out-of-school-time organizations, including after-school programs, community-based initiatives, nonprofit organizations or summer STEM programs.

Programs must have been established and operating for at least three consecutive years at the time of application and must be created, managed and continuously operated within Alabama. Applicants also must demonstrate the ability to support student learning, engagement and enrichment, as well as consistent implementation, positive outcomes and STEM best practices.

The website said eligible programs should demonstrate “a strong commitment to advancing high-quality STEM learning opportunities for Alabama students” and a track record of providing educational experiences that foster student engagement, innovation and skill development outside the traditional classroom.

“High-quality STEM experiences help students connect what they learn with the businesses and industries driving Alabama’s economy,” said Alabama Department of Workforce Secretary Greg Reed. “By recognizing programs that consistently deliver meaningful results, the Alabama STEM Council Seal of Approval will strengthen our workforce pipeline and encourage more young Alabamians to discover the many opportunities available to them.”

Programs and events selected for the designation will receive the official Alabama STEM Council Seal of Approval as well as a physical award to display at their location.

“The Alabama STEM Council Seal of Approval represents a commitment to recognizing the programs that are truly moving the needle for students in Alabama,” said Cynthia McCarty, acting executive director of the Alabama STEM Council. “We encourage STEM providers across the state to apply and showcase the important work they are doing to engage and inspire the next generation.”

Applications opened Sept. 28 after the announcement. Following a formal review process, recipients will be announced at a later date.

STEM program and event organizers interested in applying or learning more about eligibility requirements can visit http://stemcouncil.alabama.gov/seal-of-approval.

The Alabama STEM Council works to advance STEM education, support innovative learning experiences and strengthen the pipeline of future talent across the state. The council brings together educators, industry leaders and community partners with the goal of expanding access to meaningful STEM opportunities for Alabama students.