Background

The Quantum for All projects, are initiatives of STEM Experts and funded by the National Science Foundation. The projects focus on providing quantum information science workshops, camps, institutes, resources, and support for educators and students. There are currently two NSF grants designed to provide opportunities for secondary educators and students to understand principles and applications of QIS while increasing their awareness of quantum-smart and diverse career opportunities related to QIS. Links to descriptions of the grants:

Award Abstract # 2009351 Preparing Secondary Teachers to Teach Quantum Information Science

Award Abstract # 2048691 Preparing Secondary Teachers and Students for Quantum Information Science

K-12 students must be introduced to the importance of being quantum-smart, which in turn means educators must learn how to teach quantum mechanics and QIS applications. However, most K-12 educators are not prepared to teach principles and applications of quantum information and technology as they are not taught these concepts unless they are a physics major.  Quantum for All is a project designed to help K-12 teachers and students understand how quantum mechanics is the basis for current and future jobs

The Principal Investigator for the project is Dr. Karen Jo Matsler.  Dr. Matsler has been in public schools and universities for over 35 years as a teacher, administrator, and professor.  Although she has experience in many content areas and levels of organization, the majority of her career was in the high school physics classroom.  She has been recognized for her leadership outside the classroom as well as inside by serving on multiple boards, receiving state and national awards, and facilitating professional learning for teachers nationally as well as internationally.  For more information on her "quantum trek" see the recently published APS article https://aps.org/publications/apsnews/202102/quantum.cfm

National efforts to increase the level of awareness and knowledge regarding the use of Quantum Systems (QIS) are necessary in order for the United States to maintain a leadership role in technology, security, and national defense.  The White House Office of Science and Technology and NSF are leading the efforts. In December 2020, there was a  kickoff with business, government, and private individuals interested in the initiative.

Additional national resources: https://www.quantum.gov/

https://www.nsf.gov/mps/quantum/quantum_research_at_nsf.jsp

Information about the project is also posted on the Stelar website.  http://stelar.edc.org/projects/23580/profile/preparing-secondary-teachers-and-students-quantum-information-science