Montana middle school educators invited to apply for QuantumGirls STEM program

From the MSU News Service

BOZEMAN — Educators of middle school-aged girls are invited to apply for QuantumGirls, a new education and outreach project developed by Montana State University and the National Girls Collaborative Project. The program is supported by MSU’s Applied Quantum CORE.

Montana programs that operate outside of school time – such as after-school programs, museums, camps and clubs — are eligible to apply. The 10 programs or educators chosen will receive free virtual training on an engaging new science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, curriculum designed for middle school girls ages 11-14. Selected sites will also receive virtual support to help implement the curriculum and a $150 stipend for program materials.

No STEM background or prior knowledge of quantum science is required to lead or participate in the program.

Quantum science is an emerging field that draws upon the sometimes-unusual properties of extremely small particles – smaller even than the protons and neutrons that are the components of atoms. Scientists and engineers are discovering how to manipulate these particles to create faster, more sensitive and more precise systems in electronics, including sensors, location systems, computers and medical equipment. Many Montana companies are positioned to provide materials and technologies for, as well as jobs in, the growing industry.

QuantumGirls applications are due by Aug. 12, and successful applicants will be notified by Aug. 23. To learn more about the curriculum, program expectations and application criteria, people can visit https://montana.edu/smrc/quantum/.

For more information, people can contact the MSU Science Math Resource Center at [email protected]. The center supports education and workforce development for MSU’s Applied Quantum CORE, which is funded by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory.