The Office of Naval Research (ONR) seeks proposals as provided under the authority set forth in subdivision (1) of subsection 2192 (b) of title 10 in support ofeducation programs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

The ONR mission of STEM is to:
foster an interest in,

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knowledge of, and study in science, technology, engineering and mathematics nationwide to ensure an educated and well-prepared workforce, which meets the naval and national competitive needs.

In support of this mission, the following five goals have been identified:● Inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.

[Grades K-10]● Engage students in STEM-related hands-on learning activities using Navy content.

[Grades 3-12]● Educate students to be well-prepared for employment in STEM disciplines in the Navy or in supporting academic institutions or the Naval contractor community.

[Higher Education]● Employ, retain and develop Naval STEM professionals.

[Higher Education, Professional Development, Faculty]● Collaborate across Naval STEM programs to maximize benefits to participants and the Navy.The purpose of this announcement is to receive proposals in support of the Office of Naval Research’s mission of scientific outreach and education in working to develop the next generation of scientists capable of providing support to the continued development of critical technologies in support of the Department of Defense.

The objective of these activities will be to:
1. Establish and ensure successful, sustainable, and affordable long-term Navy wide programs targeted at elementary and secondary schools and institutions of higher learning.

2. Establish and maintain a pipeline of students, particularly women and members of minority groups, who will apply for and participate in Navy education and outreach programs.

3. Increase the number of domestic students (particularly students from under-represented groups) completing STEM degrees through enhancing student interest and attitudes toward science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

4. Strengthen peer, family, and school support for such interests.

5. Ensure long-term inclusiveness of women and minorities in science and technology programs.

6. Increase the number of students taking college-prep science and mathematics courses.

7. Demonstrate appropriate curricular connections with the applicable state and national standards of learning for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Additional activities supported may include providing financial assistance to organizations supporting STEM activities, providing funding and support for national competitions by arranging for DoD personnel to participate as judges and presenters, providing support for STEM education and outreach conferences and supporting teacher STEM education and training initiatives.

Stipends for teachers undertaking professional training in connection with these activities may be supported as well as funding for the acquisition of materials and resources needed to launch, implement, assess, and improve the program.

Additionally, evaluations of existing Navy/DoD program efforts and strategies to maximize marketing program opportunities to affected populations may be supported.ONR encourages the project results to be published in appropriate academic journals at the end of the period of performance.