Preparing the Next Generation of STEM Innovators: Identifying and Developing Our Nation’s Human Capital

This report is the result of a two-year study that sought to provide a sustained, coherent, and proactive effort to identify and develop the future science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) innovators in the United States. The report puts forth several policy recommendations, including: increasing K-12 access to accelerated coursework and enrichment programs; offering more “above-level tests,” especially in economically disadvantaged urban and rural areas; holding schools, and perhaps districts and states, accountable for the performance of the top students at each grade level; and supporting rigorous, research-based STEM preparation for teachers, particularly those most likely to have contact with potential STEM innovators.