In the News: Former Chicago Public Schools Employee Creates Award-Winning STEM Programs Bringing Emerging Technology into Classrooms

Programs Work to Improve Academic Outcomes and Open New Opportunities

Chicago, IL, January 10, 2022 For Immediate Release - Entrepreneur and start-up enthusiast Udit Agarwal founded NextWaveSTEM® to provide teachers with the tools, training, and resources they need to inspire K-12 students in STEM learning. As a former Procurement Buyer and IT Analyst at Chicago Public Schools Agarwal saw a need for standards-aligned STEM curriculum, on-demand STEM instruction, and teacher training options.

“I noticed how STEM hardware just sat there without being used because teachers either didn’t have the proper training or curriculum needed to use the equipment in hands-on lessons,” stated Udit Agarwal, Program Director and Founder of NextWaveSTEM®. 

“Our goal is to create a trifecta where emerging technology hardware, real-world application curriculum, and teacher training  help teachers create innovative STEM lessons for their students. We want these experiences to help students move beyond merely passing through a grade, and see their potential for careers in STEM, one of the fastest growing industries in the world.”

NextWaveSTEM® and its curriculum is aligned with NGSS Grade Band Engineering Technology Standards, Common Core Math and ELA as they relate to the NGSS ETS standards, and ISTE, CSTA and 21st Century Skills standards related to emerging technologies and STEM. Course topics include robotics, artificial intelligence, coding, drones, solar and renewable energy, entrepreneurship, innovation, cybersecurity, and 3D technology—including modeling and printing.

“Science education is most effective when students can explore current, relevant topics and gain understanding through hands-on learning. This matters even more for students with limited or inconsistent access to high-quality learning opportunities. NextWaveSTEM® engages students in experiential learning, fostering memorable experiences that can spark interest and enthusiasm for science and technology,” stated Erica McClendon Walker, MA, LSW, Program Manager, Chicago HOPES For Kids.

About NextWaveSTEM®

NextWaveSTEM®, a TechEd company provides standards-supported, digital STEM curricula and resources for K-12 teachers and classrooms for both in-class instruction and remote learning. NextWaveSTEM® is a comprehensive solution for STEM education that includes project-based curricula with corresponding course kits, and professional training and on-going support for educators.