The two main goals of NASA's education program are to "inspire and motivate students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics" by supporting education in the Nation's schools and to "engage the public in shaping and sharing the experience of exploration and discovery" by supporting informal education and public outreach efforts. NASA's commitment to education places special emphasis on these goals by increasing elementary and secondary education participation in NASA projects; enhancing higher education capability in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, or STEM, disciplines; increasing participation by underrepresented and underserved communities; expanding e-Education; and expanding NASA's participation with the informal education community.

The Office of Education will continue to support NASA's strong historical role in education at all levels, with linkages to NASA research as a central part of our focus. The majority of NASA support to higher education is delivered through the NASA Mission Directorates.

The Office of Education supports the work of the Mission Directorates by coordinating projects for students, faculty, and institutions that broaden the base of those who compete for NASA research awards. These efforts will help create and sustain the scientific and engineering workforce of the future. In addition, the Office of Education will continue to emphasize sharing the results of NASA missions and research programs with wider audiences by using science discoveries and research applications as vehicles to improve teaching and learning at all levels.