The MiSTEM Network builds and mobilizes committed networks of collaborators across Michigan to broaden the STEM ecosystem and embrace learning experiences beyond the physical classroom.  The MiSTEM Network's Greater West Michigan (GWM) Region is housed at the Regional Math and Science Center at GVSU and serves Allegan, Ottawa, Muskegon, Newaygo, Kent, and Montcalm Counties.  We provide real-world connections between school, the workplace and our communities through supporting innovative problem-, place- and project-based (3P) learning.

The Greater West Michigan Region partners with local K-12 school districts, ISDs/RESAs, out-of-school programs, community organizations, businesses, and workforce & economic development agencies.  One project is a partnership with Godwin Heights Public Schools, Kent ISD, and Gordon Food Service to implement a three-year STEAM Initiative at North Godwin Elementary, a building with a diverse population of 350 students in grades three through five (88% of students are economically disadvantaged).  The initiative aims to build a STEM identity in every student through using cycles of design thinking to solve real world problems.  At full implementation, all students will complete nine design challenges over their three years at the school, solving a variety of problems for another person, their classrooms, their community, and local organizations or businesses.