Westfield State to Host Relaunch of Pioneer Valley STEM Network

WESTFIELD — The Pioneer Valley STEM Network (PVSTEM NET), inactive for several years, will be relaunched by Westfield State University on August 13.

One of eight regional networks funded through the Department of Higher Education Pipeline Fund, PVSTEM NET aims to enable area businesses, institutions of higher education, local school districts, regional workforce development professionals, community based organizations and various municipal or civic leaders to increase the number of area students who participate in career-related programs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), while also increasing the number of qualified STEM teachers and improving educational offerings in area schools.

Re-launch attendees will network with colleagues, learn about plans for education and collaboration and will participate in an innovative STEM activity coordinated by LEGO Education. Educators will begin planning for STEM Week 2019, Oct. 21–25. Events will be held at Westfield State and other schools, colleges and locations.

Jennifer Hanselman, Ph.D., regional manager of PVSTEM NET and dean of Westfield State University’s College of Mathematics and Sciences, will welcome guests, including representatives from local colleges, PK–12 districts and schools, partners such as the Springfield Thunderbirds and LEGO Education, and Bob LePage, Massachusetts assistant secretary for career education.

The relaunch will take place from 9 a.m. to noon at the Scanlon Banquet Hall.