Building a collaborative STEM teaching community for your district

Jason McKenna is V.P. of Global Educational Strategy for VEX Robotics and author of “What STEM Can Do for Your Classroom: Improving Student Problem Solving, Collaboration, and Engagement, Grade K-6."At a conference last year, I had a conversation with two passionate elementary teachers, excited about their students' success at a recent robotics competition. Despite their students' achievements, these teachers acted almost embarrassed. They kept offering what they felt was their lack of proficiency in teacher robotics instead of bragging about their students. They also shared that unlike math or literacy, where support from colleagues was easily accessible, they felt stranded when it came to STEM subjects. Where could they turn for guidance and collaboration?

This experience is not unique. This sentiment is repeatedly shared with me when I speak with STEM teachers - they feel as if they are on an island. Many teachers, especially at the elementary level, find themselves without the training or support to teach STEM confidently. Yet, the solution is clear: building a collaborative learning community for STEM teachers. As district leaders, you have the power to create an environment where educators can grow and excel together.

Why collaboration matters in STEM

STEM learning is inherently collaborative. The principles of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics thrive on teamwork, creative problem-solving, and interdisciplinary approaches. Just as students are encouraged to work in teams to tackle real-world challenges, teachers, too, benefit from collaboration. A recent study highlights that when educators work together, they deepen their understanding of complex subjects, reflect on their teaching practices, and develop innovative strategies for student success (Mao, G., Zhang, Q., Ma, T. et al., 2024).

Additionally, peer-driven professional development—where teachers learn from one another—enhances teacher retention, increases job satisfaction, and improves student outcomes. STEM teachers who collaborate are not only better prepared to tackle challenging content but also feel more supported and capable in their roles.

So, what can you do? Here are a few simple suggestions to help get started.

1. Structured Professional Learning Communities (PLCs): Partner with other local schools to establish PLCs specifically for STEM educators, where teachers meet regularly to share lesson plans, discuss challenges, and reflect on student progress. These groups provide a platform for STEM teachers to share best practices, experiment with new teaching strategies, and gain insights from peers.
2. STEM Mentorship Programs: Pair STEM teachers, especially those who may be the only ones in their district, with highly effective teachers from any subject area. While content knowledge in STEM is important, the principles of good teaching—classroom management, student engagement, lesson planning—apply across subjects. A strong mentor, even from a different discipline, can provide valuable guidance and support, helping STEM teachers refine their teaching practice.
3. Collaborative Lesson Planning: Encourage STEM teachers to collaborate with other educators in their schools or districts, even if they are not STEM-specific. Teachers in subjects like math, science, and even art or social studies can offer valuable perspectives and contribute to interdisciplinary approaches. This type of collaboration fosters creativity and innovation, helping to integrate STEM learning across different areas of the curriculum.

The long-term benefits of teacher collaboration

By establishing a collaborative learning environment for STEM teachers, you not only enhance the teaching and learning experience but also increase teacher retention. Teachers who feel supported are more likely to stay in the profession, reducing burnout and turnover. Furthermore, fostering a culture of collaboration ensures that students receive a high-quality STEM education that prepares them for future careers in a rapidly changing world.

STEM education is not about mastering coding or robotics—it’s about fostering curiosity, resilience, and a growth mindset in both teachers and students. As an administrator, your role is to create the conditions where these traits can flourish. By supporting your STEM teachers through structured PLCs, mentorship, and access to resources, you empower them to succeed regardless of their background. Any teacher, with the right support, can cultivate a dynamic, inquiry-driven classroom where students are encouraged to explore and problem-solve. The key is being an instructional leader who nurtures these traits, creating a learning community that benefits both teachers and students for years to come.

Jason McKenna, V.P., Global Educational Strategy for VEX Robotics and author of “What STEM Can Do for Your Classroom: Improving Student Problem Solving, Collaboration, and Engagement, Grade K-6,” specializes in curriculum development and global educational strategy. His work involves engaging with educators and policymakers worldwide.