Dozens of social learning networks have been created specifically for education to emphasize 21st century skills, project-based learning and collaboration.
As districts pull back, fair organizers promote STEM and recruit young scientists, and corporations are offering national competitions to fill the void.
The new Gloria Marshall Elementary School, opening this fall in Texas, will sport an aquatic pond, a butterfly garden, an above-ground cistern and a wind turbine.
In Disney's Planet Challenge, students nationwide are asked to identify an environmental issue in their local community and come up with a solution that they will manage and document from start to finish.