transforming STEM education together

FAQs

What exactly is the Portland Metro STEM Partnership (PMSP)?

PMSP is one of 13 STEM Hubs in the State of Oregon. The Hubs are set up to be bridges and liaisons between districts, schools, educators, out-of-school organizations, community based organizations, industry, government organizations, and government departments. Our partner school districts include: Banks, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Forest Grove, and Portland. We offer a wide variety of supports to our partners including, but not limited to; Free STEM Consultation, Professional Development, curriculum, curriculum support, course support, STEAM programming support, STEAM program evaluation support, and much more.

How is PMSP Funded?

PMSP is funded via a variety of grants from the Oregon Department of Education (ODE), community foundations, and industry. It is also funded through sponsorships and donations from, individuals, STEAM Industry and foundations.

I heard PMSP Pays Educators for participating in professional development, is that true?

Most of the time yes. PMSP offers paid professional development when grant funds are available. Watch for those offerings under our Professional Development section of our site. PMSP also offers non-paid events and activities like STEAM Power Hour (networking events), STEAM Playgrounds (In-school or on-contract) programming and learning, and on the job STEAM instructional coaching and mentoring.

Is there a limit to how much an educator can earn in stipends?

Yes. Each program has a limit in the amount of stipend that will be offered for participating in professional development. This is determined by program and will be defined upon registration. Additionally, earning over $600 in stipends in a year, is considered income and, will result in receiving a 1099 for federal and state taxes.

I see you have a Lending Library. Can anyone check out items?

No. The Lending Library is limited to partner educators and organizations from within our region. Additionally, we typically check out to public schools only and active partner organizations. If you are interested in checking out something from the Library and are not sure if you are eligible, please reach out to info@pdxstem.org

Do you offer direct student programming?

Not exactly. We do not offer camps or children’s events. However, we do offer STEAM Playgrounds in-schools when we are cooperating directly with educators or an educator from a school. At these events we provide student hands-on learning experiences and teacher exposure to STEAM tools and equipment for increase STEAM learning.