Integrating STEM remains a challenge for many educators. Academic standards favor interdisciplinary STEM curricula, while a universal model is elusive. Future City, a hands-on, cross-curricular program, engages students in engineering and design to address real-world sustainability issues, meaning it can serve as a cornerstone for your curriculum. STEM fosters critical thinking and problem-solving, preparing students for future careers. However, misconceptions about student abilities, teaching methods, and limited knowledge hinder STEM integration. Budget constraints also make finding effective curricula difficult. Future City, a free to low-cost program, offers a structured yet flexible approach. Students in grades 6-8 for middle or 9-12 for high school, research, write, design, and build 3D city models out of recycled materials. The program can be run as STEM classes, curriculum in general classes, or as an extracurricular. While it is a competition, mentors can also choose Future City Lite meaning they get all the resources without the competition. Overall, the Future City program makes STEM education accessible, engaging, and impactful for students and educators alike.
