Established by an Executive Order of the Governor, the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network (the TSIN or Network) is a unique public-private collaboration between the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) and Battelle Memorial Institute (Battelle) designed to promote and expand the teaching and learning of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in K-12 public schools across Tennessee. Battelle was chosen as the managing partner because of their success creating the Ohio STEM Learning Network in their home state, an effort that inspired the creation of the TSIN. The TSIN is funded through Race to the Top and serves as the state's primary vehicle for aligning and coordinating STEM education policies, practices, and partners. Tennessee is rich in STEM resources, from heavy industry and agriculture to a robust automotive sector, deep healthcare experience, logistics genius, music entrepreneurship, and internationally recognized research institutions. The goal of the TSIN is to leverage these resources – the knowledge, skill, and acumen of Tennessee's K-12, Higher Education, Business, and Community partners – to amplify opportunities for all students. The heart of the TSIN is a community of committed educators and partners, but the Network itself is built on two key structural components: Ten STEM Platform Schools and Six Regional STEM Innovation Hubs. STEM Platform Schools
The Schools are non-selective – the student body is composed of students who express an interest in attending are are chosen by lottery – and are designed to encourage local educational innovation. Supported by the Hubs, the Schools will investigate and create new STEM teaching and learning models (best practices) to be shared throughout the state, all while providing their students with the skills necessary to succeed in the 21st century workplace. Regional STEM Innovation Hubs
The Hubs are the nucleus of regional STEM activity, representing a formal partnership among school districts, post-secondary institutions, STEM businesses, and community organizations, all committed to amplifying and accelerating the impact of STEM programs in their region. STEM education is an area of study but it is also a way of teaching and learning that is project-based, collaborative, and focused on solving real-world problems. STEM programs educate the whole student, emphasizing innovation, problem solving, critical thinking, and creativity. STEM for All
Experts predict that Tennessee will add over 10,000 exciting (and well-paying) STEM jobs to the state's economy in the next 5-10 years. Tennessee needs qualified workers to fill these roles, but STEM education is about more than just workforce development. It is also about inspiring the next generation of leaders to help solidify Tennessee's future as a leader in the global STEM marketplace. When fully realized, the TSIN will have an impact on students across the entire state. Whether urban or rural, experienced or inexperienced, every child deserves to have access to a quality STEM education. Get Involved
The TSIN needs business and community partners to connect with the Hubs and Schools in their regions to help create STEM opportunities for Tennessee students. The TSIN needs everyone to help spread the word about STEM education and what Tennessee is doing to build a better future for the entire state.
