The National Science Foundation (NSF) is funding much of the NYU Polytechnic School of Engineering’s popular "Summer of STEM" program. Through this program, students and teachers will learn how robotics, mechatronics, and cyber security can be integrated into the and change the K-12 classroom.

"It is a priority for NSF to invest in research that will engage students in STEM and give their teachers new tools for deepening their knowledge and integrating STEM topics into their students' learning," said Susan Singer NSF's Director of the Division of Undergraduate Education.

The program features a number of fascinating STEM professional development opportunities, including "Discovery Research for Teachers", "Science and Mechatronics Aided Research for Teachers with an Entrepreneurship Experience", "Cyber Security for Teachers" and more.

“Home of one of the oldest and most recognized cyber security programs in the country, the NYU School of Engineering hosts training and research opportunities for 10 high-school teachers, particularly those from schools with diverse and economically disadvantaged student bodies,” according to NSF's release.

“The program aims to engage students in hardware and software security and digital forensics, thereby opening up high-demand career paths."

STEM research is heavily associated with the next generation of students. It’s being pushed as one of the most important aspects to students’ future employment and career opportunities. The program looks to provide educators with the proper training in the aforementioned areas of STEM while supporting the growth of student interest in those fields.

Many of these programs might seem rigorous for students who are in the late-middle-to-high-school age group.  However, the program providing early access to STEM resources is an attempt to bridge that gap. It’s trying to simplify big concepts at an early age. The "Summer of STEM" program is just one of of many initiatives nationwide trying to make the transition into technology education and new and improved STEM concentrations much smoother for the coming generation.

Students are now graduating during a competitive time for employment and technology; preparing them early might be the best way to ensure a bright future.

Read the full release.

Article by Navindra Persaud, Education World Contributor.