STEM Academy for Native American students expanded statewide

BISMARCK, N.D. – State School Superintendent Kirsten Baesler said Wednesday that INSTEM, a highly successful summer instruction program for Native American students, is being expanded to make all North Dakota Native students in grades six through 12 eligible to apply.

Valley City State University hosts INSTEM, which is short for Indians Into Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. It is held in June during four different time periods, which are segmented for students in specific grades. INSTEM is free to students. They stay in a Valley City State University residence hall for four days, with meals provided.

Baesler said students who want priority consideration should apply by Feb. 28. The final application deadline is April 15. The online application form is on VCSU’s INSTEM website.

Application requirements include a typed and signed autobiographical sketch of the applicant, the student’s most recent academic transcript, tribal heritage documentation, and contact information for a personal reference who is not a relative. Application approval is based on merit, and acceptance is not guaranteed for all applicants.

“Since its inception six years ago, INSTEM has offered a wonderful opportunity for Native American students to explore subjects in science, technology, engineering and math, and experience what it’s like to live away from home on a college campus,” Baesler said.

The INSTEM schedule for summer 2024 is below. Each session begins at 4 p.m. Sunday and ends at 2 p.m. the following Thursday.

• Students going into 7th grade for 2024-2025 school year: June 2-6, 2024.

• Students going into 8th grade for 2024-2025 school year: June