The Next Step Institute (NSI) began in 1993 as “an advanced leadership institute for elementary science.”  With the support of the National Science Foundation, Dow, Hewlett-Packard, Mesa, AZ Public Schools, the Smithsonian Science Education Center (formerly the National Science Resources Center) and the Association of Science Materials Centers (ASMC), the first “Next Steps” drew over 300 participants from across the country.

Participants at this first Institute engaged in learning and sharing best practices in the change process, the design of a staff development continuum and “nuts and bolts of a materials center.”  Since 1993, the Next Step Institute has been refined and expanded to offer advanced learning and leadership opportunities in STEM.

Our Goals

  • Showcase successful strategies for engaging schools and communities in STEM.
  • Think and inspire new ideas.
  • Engage in dialogue as partners and colleagues.
  • Make new connections with people and ideas

Next Steps Institute 2018

The Smithsonian Science Education Center (SSEC) and South Carolina’s Coalition for Mathematics & Science (SCCMS) are excited to bring you the 2018 Next Steps Institute in Colorado Springs, Colorado.