STARBASE is a DoD program that serves Title 1 local school districts within the surrounding area of Little Rock AFB. The program houses 3 funded classrooms and 2 unfunded classrooms hosting 90 scholars each week exposing each to high yield STEM concepts through hands-on instruction and innovative curriculum during the school year. Enrichment activities include 6, 1 week summer camps and 4 community outreach activities and instructional programming. This initiative aims to inspire students to pursue STEM careers, especially in areas relevant to national security.
Key program goals include:
- Enhancing student engagement in STEM subjects
- Promoting an understanding of DoD missions
- Aligning with national STEM standards and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
**Please see full details as outlined in AF DoDI 1025.07 dated 15 Jan 2021
The purpose of this RFP is to identify a nonprofit with demonstrated success in STEM education and outreach, particularly in supporting Department of Defense-affiliated STEM programs. The selected nonprofit will provide oversight, staffing, curriculum management, and continuous improvement for the STARBASE program.
The transition must be fully implemented by August 1, 2025, to ensure the program is ready for the start of the 2025-2026 school year.
*SEE ATTACHED RFP FOR ADDITIONAL GUIDANCE*
