21st Century STEM for Girls and Underrepresented Minorities Act

Encouraging STEM Careers: The bill provides funds for activities that prepare girls and underrepresented minorities for careers in STEM and highlight the advantages of these fields (Section 2, subsection c, clause 1).

Support for Families: The program can be used to educate parents about STEM opportunities and enlist their help in overcoming obstacles and encouraging their children's interest (Section 2, subsection c, clauses 2 and 3).

Direct Student Support: Students can benefit from tutoring, mentoring, after-school activities, and summer programs designed to develop skills and interest in STEM (Section 2, subsection c, clauses 4, 7, and 8).

Career Exposure and Experience: The grant allows for field trips to institutions of higher education, exposure to role models, and the ability to pay up to 50 percent of the cost of a STEM internship (Section 2, subsection c, clauses 5, 10, and 12).

Teacher Training: Funds can be used for professional development to help teachers eliminate gender and racial bias in the classroom and create a more positive environment (Section 2, subsection c, clause 13).

Strict Eligibility Requirements: Local educational agencies must meet specific criteria to qualify, including receiving funds under part A of title I and serving a population where at least 40 percent are eligible for free or reduced price lunch (Section 2, subsection g, clause 2).

Administrative Burdens: To receive a grant, agencies must submit an application containing specific descriptions of their programs, research, and recruitment processes (Section s 2, subsection b, clause 1). Additionally, agencies are required to submit a written evaluation of their program at the end of each school year (Section 2, subsection f, clause 1).