2021 Seal of Approval Recipients
October 2021
CornCon Cybersecurity Conference and Kids' STEM Camp
To address the need for cybersecurity professionals in Iowa, CornCon provides training to inspire students to consider a cybersecurity career and keep talent in our state. This annual two-day cybersecurity conference is designed to inspire both kids and adults in STEM learning and resources. CornCon approaches STEM as interdisciplinary and teaches mathematics, problem-solving, cybersecurity, internet safety, engineering, team building and more. Scholarships are available to assist with the cost of registration.
Future City Iowa
This annual program, hosted by NewBoCo, features project-based learning opportunities for middle school students to design futuristic cities with sustainability solutions. Youth learn 21st Century and STEM skills to promote innovative problem solving. Future City Iowa is part of the worldwide Future City Competition, which engages more than 45,000 middle school students each year. The Future City Iowa program culminates with a regional competition. Grant funding allows for the participation fee to be waived for all Iowa teams.
January 2021
Jewels Academy Young Emerging Scientists (Y.E.S.)
Jewels Academy's Y.E.S. program cultivates an interest in science-related careers with the intent to close the workforce gap in the STEM-related fields. Y.E.S. is an interactive, long-term, STEM enrichment program for under-represented young women (grades 4-9) that meets periodically throughout the year. Girls can register for as many sessions as they like and build on previous concepts.
February 2021
Iowa's Geological Resources Workshop for Teachers
This course is a collaboration between the Iowa Limestone Producers Association (ILPA) and the University of Northern Iowa to help Iowa's Teachers (any grade, any background) learn more about Iowa's Geology. Teachers gain and enhance their knowledge of Iowa's geological past, present and future course work and are being empowered to teach geoscience, emphasizing intentional and interdisciplinary STEM. Teachers apply their knowledge, new sample set and geologic resources close to their schools to develop new K-12 classroom lessons/activities.