Funding will allow scaling of a four-year program called Filling the Gap (FTG). STEM West and The Science House of NCSU has consistently partnered on this program. Funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission and Duke Energy Foundation, over 40 teachers have been trained in project based learning (PBL). These teachers have partnered with local STEM businesses to create real-world PBL units related to business. These units make learning relevant and engaging.

The GLF funds will allow a Train-the-Trainer model to be developed. This summer, school district personnel will be trained alongside teachers. Next summer the individual school districts will be able to provide their own training with their own local STEM businesses, strengthening those public-private partnerships. This scaling model will reach more teachers each summer and engage more students each year!