Building STEM Workshop Capacity in Iowa
GrantID: 15
Grant Funding Amount Low: $15,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $1,500,000
Summary
Grant Overview
STEM Workshops for First-Generation Disabled Students in Iowa
Iowa has identified first-generation college students with disabilities as a particularly underserved population within its education system, especially in STEM fields. According to recent studies, approximately 50% of first-generation students with disabilities drop out before completing their degrees, compared to a significantly lower dropout rate of 28% among their peers without disabilities. This disparity underscores the barriers these students face, including lack of support systems and tailored resources necessary to succeed in challenging academic environments.
Students who encounter these obstacles are often from urban areas like Des Moines and rural communities throughout the state. In both contexts, the 2020 U.S. Census revealed that about 12% of Iowa's population identifies as having a disability, creating a pressing need for targeted interventions. Local educators have recognized that first-generation disabled students often lack access to mentorship and guidance, which are critical for academic retention and performance in rigorous fields like STEM.
This funding initiative aims to develop specialized workshops tailored for first-generation college students with disabilities pursuing STEM degrees in Iowa. The program will provide comprehensive resources, including academic advising, mentorship opportunities, and peer support networks. Applicants must demonstrate their organization’s capability to implement these workshops and collect data on student performance and satisfaction, which will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of the initiative.
In Iowa, where 34% of students enrolled in public higher education institutions are first-generation students, establishing robust support systems is essential for fostering success in STEM academic pathways. The anticipated outcomes include enhanced academic performance, retention rates, and graduation rates among participants, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive educational environment that empowers disabled students.
This initiative not only addresses immediate educational challenges but also aims to transform the long-term career prospects for first-generation disabled students by encouraging participation in STEM fields. Unlike strategies adopted in neighboring states, which may provide generalized support, Iowa’s focus on the unique needs of first-generation disabled students is a distinctive approach that recognizes the layered complexities of their educational journeys.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
