Increasing Access to High-Quality Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education

This memorandum directs the Secretary of Education to prioritize STEM education, particularly Computer Science, by establishing it as a Department priority for grant awards starting in fiscal year 2018, setting a goal of $200 million annually in STEM-focused grant funds, exploring administrative actions to expand Computer Science programs, and requiring annual reports to OMB. It highlights significant gaps in access to Computer Science education, especially for minorities, rural students, and girls.

Federal Register Open PDF 82 FR 45417

Impact dates

Dec 24, 2017
Annual report to OMB Director on prior fiscal year activities
Oct 25, 2017
Secretary identifies grant programs and estimates STEM funding after final appropriations passage

Key directives

Establish STEM education, particularly Computer Science, as a Department of Education priority for grant awards in FY2018 and future years
Set goal of at least $200 million in annual grant funds for STEM/Computer Science education
Within 30 days of final appropriations passage, identify applicable grant programs and estimate STEM funding amounts
Communicate annual plans to OMB Director
Explore administrative actions to add or increase Computer Science focus in existing K-12 and post-secondary programs
Provide guidance documents and technical assistance for Computer Science education
Submit annual report to OMB Director within 90 days after each fiscal year end describing activities, spending, and outcomes

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

Establishment of STEM/Computer Science as Department of Education priority for FY2018 grant awards

Near term (90d)

Secretary must identify grant programs and estimate STEM funding within 30 days of final appropriations passage each year

Long term

Annual $200 million goal for STEM grants ongoing; annual reports due 90 days after each fiscal year end; sustained focus on teacher recruitment and training

Risks & tensions

Goal of $200 million annually is contingent on appropriations and described as a goal, not a mandate—subject to 'to the extent consistent with law' and 'availability of appropriations' limitations
Vague directive to 'explore' administrative actions and 'identify and take action' on guidance creates uncertainty about concrete follow-through
Priority-setting for grants may face legal constraints on redirecting congressionally appropriated funds
Effectiveness depends on sustained multi-year implementation across changing administrations