SB 535 - This act creates the "STEM Career Awareness Activity Fund" for the purpose of establishing a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) activity program for students in grades nine through twelve. Under the act, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) shall select a provider to deliver a teacher-led program that involves facilitating a cohort of students to conduct STEM activities at state, national, or international competitions. DESE shall select a provider that presents data demonstrating the effectiveness of the program as defined in the act. DESE shall begin soliciting applications from providers by January 1, 2024, and select a provider by March 1, 2024. This act is substantially similar to a provision in HCS/SS/SCS/SBs 411 & 230 (2023), HB 887 (2023), and a provision in HCS/HB 502 (2023).OLIVIA SHANNON