STEM Scouts is a national pilot program focused on fun ways for girls and boys, grades 3 - 12, to learn more about science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), developed by the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). Using hands-on activities, field trips, and interaction with STEM professionals, youth expand their knowledge of academic concepts while they have fun and make friends. The youth do not have to have Scouting experience, or be currently registered as Scouts.

The youth are organized into labs which are defined by the school level: elementary school (grades 3-5), middle school (grades 6-8), and high school (grades 9-12). STEM Scouts work with lab managers and STEM professionals to do fun, hands-on experiments that teach STEM-related concepts and show how STEM knowledge is used in everyday life and in the professional world. The labs participate in weekly experiments, have monthly field trips, and use volunteer adult leaders and short-term professional volunteers. High school students also have the opportunity to publish their work in a peer-reviewed journal and build a resume for college. Meeting days/times are determined by the most convenient for those involved in that particular lab.

The hope is that their growing knowledge will translate into interest in STEM-related careers that are so crucial to our country’s future economy. STEM Scouts instills the values of the Scout Oath and Law and encourages the natural curiosity of young minds as they develop skills in leadership, teamwork, problem solving, and communication.