DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – Iowa has received a $1.2 million federal grant for a project related to science, technology, engineering and math education.  Gov. Terry Branstad announced the funding from the National Science Foundation Tuesday in a press release. The study of these four subjects collectively is known as STEM.

The money will be provided over three years and will help develop a statewide system for evaluating STEM education in Iowa. The funding goes to an advisory council that works on advancing STEM education. Branstad established the council in 2011.

In the release, Branstad calls Iowa a “pioneering state in advancing these important life and career skills.”