Access STEM Teacher Recruitment Grant Funding

About This Service

The STEM Teacher Recruitment Grant Program provided a funding opportunity for non-profit organizations to develop or expand a program that recruits individuals into a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) teaching pathway. The program prioritized recruitment programs that recruit teachers into public school districts in underserved areas.

Grant Award

On May 9, 2022, EnCorps, Inc. was selected as the recipient of the $2,850,000 grant.

Project Abstract

EnCorps, Inc. goal was to increase educational equity, reduce the severe STEM teacher shortage, & inspire a more diverse STEM workforce in the future. EnCorps, Inc. goal was to recruit 700 STEM fellows into teaching pathways statewide with a focus on districts with high numbers of disadvantaged students and the greatest demand for secondary math & science teachers, including: Antioch, Oakland, Mt. Diablo, Pittsburg, Los Angeles, Santa Ana, Garden Grove, Corona-Norco, Riverside, Elk Grove, Twin Rivers, Fontana, Grossmont, Oceanside, San Diego, San Francisco, Lodi, Stockton, East Side Union & Santa Clara County Office of Education.

Project Period and Other Requirements

The project time period began on May 16, 2022 and concluded on April 30, 2026. Mandatory reporting requirements were established and progress payments of grant funds were dependent on the grant recipient submitting necessary reports.

Overall Program Impacts and Outcomes

Encorps, Inc. began their recruitment efforts by inviting professionals to participate in volunteer guest teaching, prior to entering a Credential Program or pursuing a teaching career. Throughout the Grant timeline, this strategy proved to be successful: in FY2023, 8 fellows began guest teaching, but by FY2026, that number had increased dramatically to 59. During this same time, EnCorps, Inc. recruited 393 STEM Fellows. While total recruitment did not reach the original projected goal of 700 Fellows, the grant demonstrated accelerating momentum as recruitment systems matured.

In addition to an increase in guest teachers and signed offer letters, EnCorps, Inc. had a steady impact on students in low-income communities.

• In 2023, the program supported 19,125 students.
• In 2024, the number remained steady at 18,995 students.
• Impact increased significantly in 2025, reaching 23,910 students.
• By 2026, the program achieved its highest level of reach, serving 32,804 students.

These outcomes highlight EnCorps, Inc.'s ongoing commitment to strengthening STEM education in underserved communities and demonstrate the lasting impact of targeted recruitment and support for passionate STEM professionals.