CREATE STEM Learning Network
ISSUE 9
Stakeholders from across the CREATE STEM Learning Network recently reconvened to reflect on the original goal for the Aligned Teaching and Learning Working Group and to determine how the network can most effectively support Project-Based Learning (PBL) across the region. The original goal focused on engaging 100 percent of students in real-world PBL projects by 2026. This prompted important discussion about what aspects of PBL the network can directly support, such as professional development, shared planning time, and instructional resources, and what relies on school and district-level adoption. Participants also discussed the importance of engaging school and district leadership, building a shared understanding of why PBL matters, and identifying realistic indicators of progress, including educator participation in professional learning and early implementation efforts.
As a result of these conversations, the working group revised its goal to better reflect the network’s role and influence:
Build regional capacity for high-quality K–12 Project-Based Learning (PBL) by engaging school and district leaders in a shared vision and providing coordinated professional development and instructional support for educators.
This refined goal allows the CREATE STEM Learning Network to focus on building capacity, strengthening collaboration, and supporting sustainable PBL practices across the region.
This fall, the CREATE STEM Learning Network and the JSU Regional Inservice Center partnered with PBLWorks to host a series of hands-on professional learning experiences focused on Project-Based Learning (PBL). The series included two Project Slice workshops and one PBL Visioning session, bringing together educators, instructional leaders, and preservice teachers from across the region.
The Project Slice workshop was a one-day immersive experience designed to help schools and districts build foundational understanding of what PBL is and why it matters. Participants engaged as learners in a complete mini-project that modeled the full PBL process, including collaboration, inquiry, critique, and reflection. Throughout the day, they were encouraged to "put on their teacher hats" and consider how these strategies could be applied in their own classrooms or school systems. The Visioning session supported teams as they began planning how to integrate PBL across schools and districts, with a focus on deeper learning, student engagement, and alignment with workforce readiness goals. Preservice teachers from Jacksonville State University and the University of West Alabama participated alongside practicing educators, gaining early exposure to learner-centered practices they will carry into their future careers.
These workshops reflected CREATE’s mission to support educators in delivering high-quality, real-world STEM learning experiences that prepare students for success in both college and careers.
On January 12–13, the CREATE STEM Learning Network joined educators, industry professionals, nonprofit leaders, and innovators at the Summit for Alabama STEM Education & Workforce (SASEW), held at the BJCC East Exhibition Hall in Birmingham.
Co-hosted by the Alabama STEM Foundation, Alabama STEM Council, and i-STEM Ecosystem, this two-day event featured keynote speakers, breakout sessions, networking opportunities, and an interactive Expo Hall—all focused on advancing STEM education and workforce readiness across the state.
Our region was proudly represented:
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Talladega County Schools showcased their ZIP zSpace Immersive Playground, drawing excitement around immersive STEM learning.
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CREATE Racing students earned well-deserved recognition in the Student Showcase.
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The CREATE STEM Learning Network booth highlighted ongoing programs and expanded networking with partners across Alabama.
Valerie Curtis delivered session inspired by the Jax State Region 6 Classroom to Career Summit model. She presented regional workforce data and emphasized the importance of durable skills. Her session explored how industry tours, collaborative debriefs, and aligned instruction can connect K–12 education with real workforce needs and ultimately strengthen both student success and community partnerships.
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The Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama presented on their mission and wide-reaching impact. They shared upcoming plans to serve over 50,000 students in grades 5–8 across 12 counties, offering NASA-vetted, hands-on space missions, junior-micro credentials in robotics, hydroponics, and more. Programs will expand to K–4 Micronaut missions and high school experiences, helping ensure access to high-quality STEM learning across Northeast Alabama. Challenger partners with CREATE and EARTH to serve students and schools in the region.
From discussions on future skills and AI to hands-on exploration of STEM innovations, the Summit provided powerful insight into how Alabama is preparing students for high-demand careers.
We are proud to be part of this statewide movement to strengthen STEM learning and workforce alignment and to see our region leading the way.
The CREATE STEM Learning Network is excited to host the Regional Invention Convention on February 20, 2026, at the CREATE Center in Oxford, Alabama.
This event is part of a global K–12 invention education program that empowers students to identify real-world problems and create innovative solutions. Students in grades 5–8 from multiple school systems will showcase their original inventions, explain their design process, and present prototypes.
Event Details:
📅 Date: February 20, 2026
🕣 Time: 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. (Set-up begins at 8:00 a.m.)
📍 Location: CREATE, 1 Cliff Garrett Drive, Oxford, AL 36203
Whether you're an educator curious about bringing Invention Convention to your school, or a community or industry partner interested in supporting student innovation, we invite you to attend and see the power of invention-based learning in action. To learn more or get involved as a future participant or judge, contact Abby Howle.
Cleburne County 4th Graders Explore STEM at Heflin Mountain Center
Fourth grade students from Cleburne County recently participated in a hands-on STEM Day at the Heflin Mountain Center, where they explored concepts like electricity, magnetism, and energy through engaging activities and demonstrations. Students attended interactive presentations by Littleton Electric, Alabama Power, ATIM, and Valerie Curtis, making real-world connections to STEM careers and technologies.
COMING SOON: SparkSTEM Events Around Our Region!
Get ready for SparkSTEM, an exciting one-day experience designed to ignite curiosity and connect students to real-world STEM opportunities.
📍 July 16 – Oxford
📍 July 21 – Randolph County
📍 TBD – Centre
At SparkSTEM, your students will:
🔬 Discover how STEM connects to their classes and future careers
⚙️ Engage with industry professionals and explore workforce skills
🚀 Participate in hands-on, interactive activities
🏭 Learn about local industries and career paths in their own community
Stay tuned for registration details and how your school can take part in this powerful day of exploration and learning!
GRANT OPPORTUNITY: Expand or Launch Technology Pathways in Your District
The Alabama STEM Foundation is now accepting applications for the Technology Education & Career Pathways Accelerator Grant—a statewide initiative designed to help high school students earn industry-recognized technology and cybersecurity credentials before graduation.
Two grant types are available:
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Implementation Grant ($10,000–$15,000): For districts enhancing existing technology or cybersecurity pathways.
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New Pathway Grant ($25,000–$30,000): For districts launching new, multi-year credentialing programs.
This is a powerful opportunity to expand access to high-demand skills and prepare students for future careers in tech.
Key Dates:
🗓 Request for Proposals Opens: January 19, 2026
🗓 Proposals Due: February 23, 2026
🗓 Districts Selected: March 6, 2026
🗓 Programs Launch: August 2026
Learn more and apply below to bring industry-recognized credentials to students in your school or district.
We want to hear from you! If your school or business has exciting STEM experiences or partnerships between industry and the community, we’d love to feature them in our next issue. Please take a moment to share your story by scanning the QR code or clicking the link to fill out our quick form. Your contribution helps us highlight innovative learning opportunities and inspire others across our community. We look forward to learning about the amazing work happening in STEM near you!