NSF Pauses Top STEM Teacher Awards for a Fresh Rethink
Published Date: 4/28/2026
Notice
Summary
The National Science Foundation is hitting pause on its top awards for awesome STEM teachers and mentors to rethink and improve the programs. If you teach, mentor, or just love STEM education, now’s your chance to share ideas by May 28, 2026. This review could change how these awards work and who gets recognized in the future—so get ready for some exciting updates!
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Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Winners Receive $10,000 and Recognition
Each PAEMST and PAESMEM awardee receives $10,000 and a certificate signed by the President, and awardees are invited to a recognition ceremony in Washington, DC.
NSF Paused Award Cycles
In July 2025, NSF paused the annual application and award cycles for the PAEMST and PAESMEM programs so it can conduct a strategic review and planning process to reorient the programs.
Who Can Be Nominated and Award Counts
PAEMST recognizes up to 110 K–12 teachers each year (selected from each state, DC, Puerto Rico, DoDEA, and U.S. jurisdictions) divided into K–6 and 7–12 groups; PAESMEM honors up to 15 individuals or organizations annually and accepts nominations from public and private sectors including industry, academia, K–12, military, government, non-profits, and foundations.
Request for Information and Comment Deadline
NSF is requesting information and comments to inform a review of PAEMST and PAESMEM; responses are voluntary, must be received by May 28, 2026, and submissions become the property of the U.S. Government. This is a Request for Information only and is not a Notice of Funding Opportunity.
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