The Mississippi Statewide Afterschool Network works to better our state and its communities by connecting providers, parents and policymakers with proven tools and resources to increase the quality of and access to out-of-school time programming for K-12 children and youth.

 

Afterschool is a lifeline that keeps youth safe, helps kids learn and grow, and provides parents the ability to work without worry. 

Mississippi has hundreds of afterschool and summer learning programs across the state for children and families. Use this map to find a program in your area.

Mississippi has hundreds of afterschool and summer learning programs across the state for children and families. Use this map to find a program in your area.

Announcing Mississippi’s Own: Welcoming Rhett to the 2025 STEM Next Flight Crew!

Jun 10, 2025 | Afterschool in Mississippi, STEM in Afterschool

The Mississippi Statewide Afterschool Network (MSAN) is absolutely thrilled to share a powerful announcement from our partners at STEM Next Opportunity Fund! They have officially selected the inspiring 2025 STEM Next Flight Crew, and we are incredibly proud that Mississippi is represented among these bright young leaders.

This is a fantastic opportunity to recognize the incredible talent and potential within our state’s youth, and we encourage everyone to join us in celebrating our very own Flight Crew member.

What is the STEM Next Flight Crew?

The STEM Next Flight Crew is a prestigious program that identifies and amplifies the voices of diverse young people who are passionate about science, technology, engineering, and math. These individuals serve as ambassadors, sharing their experiences, advocating for STEM education, and inspiring their peers and communities to engage with STEM fields. They represent the future of innovation and leadership.

Meet Our Mississippi Representative: Rhett!

We are so excited to introduce Rhett, an 11th-grade student who has been selected to represent Mississippi in the 2025 STEM Next Flight Crew!

Rhett is deeply interested in engineering and robotics, and his passion for STEM is truly inspiring. When reflecting on his own experiences, Rhett shared:

“My experience with the SAME Engineering Camp showed me the way in which STEM careers affect and change lives all over Mississippi and the world. The SAME Camp showed me the connections I can make with other passionate peers, inspired me, and gave me hope for the future. The experience I gained at this camp with other students from all over the nation helped me grow as a leader and in my passion for STEM, and drive my desire to inspire that same passion at my school and in my community.”

Rhett embodies the spirit of innovation and dedication that MSAN strives to foster in all Mississippi youth. We are confident he will be an outstanding advocate for STEM education across our state and beyond.

Why This Matters: Supporting Our Young STEM Leaders

The selection of a Mississippi representative for the STEM Next Flight Crew is a testament to the talent within our state and the effectiveness of local STEM programs. As a statewide network, we see this as a phenomenal opportunity to:

  • Introduce these young thought leaders to key stakeholders and media in their communities.
  • Amplify their messages about the importance of STEM learning and careers.
  • Inspire more young people in Mississippi to pursue their interests in STEM.

We will be working to ensure Rhett’s voice is heard and his journey is celebrated throughout Mississippi.

Join Us in Celebrating!

We encourage you to visit the official STEM Next website to learn more about the entire 2025 Flight Crew.

Let’s rally behind Rhett and empower all young people to envision themselves as future STEM leaders!

Categories