Excellence in STEM Education Grant
Eligibility
Arkansas K-12 public schools. Teachers with an active CS or STEM program, or those launching a new program, are eligible. Strong preference for schools demonstrating commitment to CS education.
Program Goals
The Excellence in STEM Education Grant equips AR schools with both hardware (STEM kits and tools) and professional development. The program reinforces Arkansas's statewide CS mandate by ensuring teachers have the tools and training they need.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
Applications submitted through the AR CS Initiative website. September 18, 2026 deadline. Complete the online application with your school's CS program details and how you will use the equipment.
Cycle Notes
Annual competitive cycle. September 18, 2026 deadline. Awards typically announced in fall. Monitor arkansascsinitiative.com for future cycles.
Grant Award Amount
Equipment package plus teacher training. The grant provides physical STEM tools and PD support rather than cash. Value varies by award tier.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- Coding for Good Kit — an all-in-one coding, robotics, and AI literacy toolkit using micro:bit for real-world challenges
- CodeCTRL controller with display for micro:bit — a handheld game-style controller for interactive games and physical computing
- Climate Action Kit — a beginner-friendly STEM kit combining micro:bit sensors to code solutions for climate change and sustainability
- CHARGE Battery Pack for micro:bit — a compact rechargeable power solution that makes micro:bit projects fully portable
- Forward Education Learning Platform — curriculum-aligned STEM lessons, coding tutorials, career profiles, and PD courses
Frequently Asked Questions
Who administers this grant?
The Arkansas CS Initiative in partnership with the AR Department of Education.
What does the grant provide?
STEM equipment plus a teacher training package — both hardware and professional development.
When is the deadline?
September 18, 2026.
Does my school need an existing CS program?
No — schools launching new programs are eligible. Strong preference for schools with a plan for ongoing CS integration.
How can Forward Education help?
Our Coding for Good Kit and CodeCTRL controller are aligned to the CS learning outcomes this grant prioritizes. We can provide curriculum alignment and a program outline.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals.
- Curriculum alignment documents — Arkansas standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing
- Letters of support
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence
