EarthShare NJ Wheels for STEM Program

It’s the only earth we have.

Educational field trips that focus on the environment for students are crucial in learning about ways we can positively impact our natural surroundings. These field trips are a critical need expressed by science teachers throughout the state of New Jersey. Unfortunately for many New Jersey schools, budgets for field trip transportation have been decreased or eliminated. This severely impacts the ability of teachers to plan and conduct field trips. This greatly reduces the opportunity for hands-on field experiences in our natural spaces. While many programs have transitioned to virtual or been brought into the classroom, there is nothing like experiencing our natural surroundings in person.

The ESNJ Wheels for STEM program helps to make sure these in person experiences continue. The objective is to get more young people into the amazing natural spaces across New Jersey so that they can create a love for the environment that will last a lifetime.

What is it?

The Wheels for STEM program provides a travel stipend for pre-approved k – 12 public school field trips.

How is it funded?

Generous donors including individuals, corporations, local businesses and more have contributed to the fund. There is an oversite committee to make sure the funds are used exclusively for the purpose of supporting this program!

How does it work?

Applications (which will be available soon) are completed by the teacher or appropriate district representative online. A team of EarthShare NJ Board and staff review the applications and select a defined number for funding each fiscal year. (July 1 – June 30). Those selected will receive the funds when they provide documentation of the paid expense.

What’s the catch?

The field trip must be to a current EarthShare NJ non-profit partner. Visit here for a list of the current non-profit partners.

How can I support the program?

The more we raise, the more students we can get outside! Please consider donating to the program here. Donations are tax deductible. If your business, foundation, or group would like to help fund the program, let us know and we can share more about how your generosity will be recognized.

How can I apply?

The application will be posted here when the funding period begins. Don’t worry, we’ll have lots of announcements about it when that happens. To make sure you don’t miss anything, sign up for our mailing list here!

Questions… Suggestions…. or more?

Please feel free to reach out to us at info@earthsharenj.org. We’ll get back to you with any information you need!