Brooklyn Teachers Chosen For National STEM Research Grants

BROOKLYN, NY — Two Brooklyn teachers will soon be able to conduct scientific research outside the classroom with their students thanks to a national science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) grant.

Tchnavia Merrick, who teaches at Math Engineering and Science Academy High School in Bushwcik and Lauren Moffett, from Leaders High School were among 100 educators across the country that nonprofit The Society for Science & the Public chose in its STEM Research Grants program this year.

Through the program, the 100 educators will get STEM research kits valued at $1,000 in an aim to help middle and high school students from underserved communities get the chance to conduct hands-on research.

“In the last 10 months, STEM teachers have had to completely overhaul learning. It has been particularly difficult to move hands-on research and project-based learning, such as science labs, to a virtual environment without the appropriate equipment and materials,” Society for Science CEO Maya Ajmera said. “By providing teachers and students with STEM research kits and equipment, we hope to accelerate STEM learning and spark a curiosity in science and engineering topics, despite current circumstances.”

The teachers, from 38 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, will get to choose from 13 STEM kits, funded by Regeneron, focusing on everything from technology to neuroscience.

Merrick, a self-proclaimed STEM enthusiast, said the kits will help her goal of exposing Black and Latino students to the field.

"I am elated that my students will be able to participate in an authentic research experience," she said. "My students, who come from communities underrepresented in STEM fields, will now have opportunities to apply what they are learning in class to an actual relevant experience. Also, students will use some of the same techniques that scientists use to solve real-world problems."

The 100 educators chosen for the STEM grant also include a Kernita Mwalumogo, who works at the Bronx Academy for Multi Media.

See the full list of 100 STEM Research Grantees here