Last month, VPOST joined out-of-school time leaders from across the country at the STEM Next Opportunity Fund's Inspire Momentum convening, where participants explored new ideas to expand high-quality STEM learning and strengthen career-connected opportunities for youth. A highlight of the event was hearing from former astronaut and physician Dr. Bernard Harris Jr. about his groundbreaking work in space medicine, followed by an inspiring visit to NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Together, these experiences reinforced the exciting future of aerospace and STEM careers and the important role OST programs play in helping young people build the skills, confidence, and curiosity to pursue them. (For some Virginia-specific aerospace resources, read about Virginia Spaceport Authority in this newsletter!)

VPOST is excited to bring this momentum back to Virginia through our STEM initiatives, including the upcoming R³ professional development series, which will help OST educators strengthen math confidence by addressing the emotions, beliefs, and mindsets that influence success in mathematics. Thank you again, STEM Next, for a wonderful event and your ongoing support of STEM in Virginia!