Press release:

Students in Highline will have better opportunities to be prepared for careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), thanks to an initiative announced today.

The non-profit Washington STEM has announced a grant of $270,000 to launch the South King County STEM Network. This newly formed network of school districts, businesses, higher education, workforce development, research institutes, and public/private organizations will work collaboratively to improve STEM education for students in the region.

The South King County STEM Network includes seven districts in the region: Auburn, Federal Way, Highline, Kent, Renton, South Seattle and Tukwila.

Washington STEM is investing in three STEM Networks across Washington, which will support communities to revitalize STEM education and drive local economic development.

The South King County STEM Network’s lead agency is Puget Sound Educational Service District (PSESD).

“We are very excited to lead this effort on behalf of the Network, which will increase opportunities for students to pursue STEM education and careers,” says John Welch, incoming PSESD Superintendent and Chair of the Network’s Leadership Team. “This partnership will help close the opportunity gap and meet real education and workforce needs in our region.”

Washington STEM is a statewide nonprofit advancing equity, excellence, and innovation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education. Launched in March 2011, Washington STEM invests in and lifts up breakthrough ideas and promising practices that bridge education and our economy through STEM. Together with educators, businesses, and communities, they are improving opportunities for those most underserved and underrepresented in STEM fields. Learn more at www.washingtonstem.org