BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) -- The Catalyze Birmingham Challenge grant aims to fund innovative projects that provide students with educational opportunities and pathways to careers. It serves learners in the 11-22 age range.
According to the Catalyze Challenge's website, Birmingham is the first city to host a regional version of the challenge.
A group of three teachers, including Arlinda Davis, Yuvraj Verma and Cassandra Young, alongside social worker Jackie Backay-Parks, have applied for the grant with a proposal for an astronomy program that, among other benefits, would allow participating students to travel to various states and learn about space science at different museums, space centers and planetariums. If they are awarded the grant, the program, called Alabama STEM Astronomers, would provide immersive, hands-on learning experiences for the students that it would serve.
The two-week trip would be followed by monthly STEM exhibitions and continuous mentorship.
According to Verma, the program would address the critical need for diverse career exploration opportunities, particularly for students in underserved communities.
Applications for the grant closed on Aug. 16, and grantees will be notified in November.