A New STEM Program Opens Opportunities for Libby Girls

Though the share of women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (collectively known as STEM) increased from 2011 to 2021, women still only make up about one third of the STEM workforce, according to the National Science Foundation. It’s an issue that Libby Public Schools’ superintendent wanted to address by offering more STEM learning opportunities to young girls in Libby. Without many options (few programs would train district staff) and a tight district budget, he reached out to Code Girls United, a Kalispell-based nonprofit that offers free after-school programs teaching coding, technology, and business skills to young girls in rural communities. Code Girls United agreed to set up a new learning program dedicated to Libby girls in elementary and middle school, but the group needed help with startup costs. So, one staff member reached out to LOR. LOR’s funding will help Code Girls United and Libby Public Schools with the initial investment costs to get the program up and running for a year, including classroom materials, curriculum supplies, and visits from the nonprofit’s program coordinator.