STEM Education Program
Sparking curiosity through real-world application
The mission of DRI’s STEM Education Program is to support PreK-12 educators in research-based, STEM education by providing the tools, resources, and knowledge they need, so all students acquire the knowledge and skills needed to work, live and contribute in our community. We achieve our mission by offering experiential learning opportunities that support individuals’ pathway to the STEM knowledge economy and workforce.
The STEM Education Program provides inquiry-based STEM curriculum through our Green Boxes, presents educator professional development trainings, offers college internships, provides workforce development opportunities, and facilitates all-ages outreach programs.
STEM EDUCATION PROGRAM AT A GLANCE
600+ educators trained through hands-on professional development events
27,000+ community members participated in
EnergySmart Education learning opportunities
30,000+ K-12th grade students engaged in hands-on
STEM learning through our Green Box program
Over 150 undergraduate students developed workforce skills
through hands-on internships
More than 150 Green Boxes available for Nevada Educators

Green Boxes
Green Boxes are self-contained teaching kits that provide educators with two or more weeks worth of STEM lesson plans along with all of the supplies necessary to conduct each activity.
Educator Professional Development
Preparing Nevada’s educators with real world science information and expertise so they can transmit that information to their students. DRI’s STEM Education Team hosts professional development teacher trainings throughout the year.
STEM Co-Lab Lending Library
Southern Nevada Educators can utilize the STEM Co-Lab lending library, checking out classroom sets of 3D printers, Photon Robots, Cricuts, Arudiunos, and more!
EnergySmart Education
Outreach programs to K-12 schools throughout Nevada to teach and promote energy consumption awareness and energy conservation.
STEM Force
The STEM Force Program engages at-risk youth in a STEM-intensive experience, sparking interests, developing career connections, and identifying pathways for the future. This program promotes equity through STEM exposure and engagement, preparing Southern Nevada’s vulnerable youth for successful futures.
Virtual Resources
Explore our virtual STEM learning resources, including curriculum, classroom activities, and more!
Help Support These Programs
Your donation will go towards the STEM Education Program’s incredible initiatives such as Green Boxes, teacher trainings, and workshops. DRI’s STEM Education Programs impact communities throughout the entire state of Nevada, reaching urban, rural, and tribal communities.
CONTACT
STEM Education
Program Team
STEMeducation@dri.edu
775.673.7389
RENO LOCATION
Desert Research Institute
Northern Nevada
Science Center
2215 Raggio Parkway
Reno, NV 89512
LAS VEGAS LOCATION
Desert Research Institute
Southern Nevada
Science Center
755 East Flamingo Rd.
Las Vegas, NV 89119