STARBASE Oregon envisions that all students who attend will develop the essential Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Design, and Mathematics (STEAM) literacy and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Our mission is to empower every student to confidently explore and remain current in the rapidly evolving world of STEAM. STARBASE Rees is the newest of four STARBASE Oregon academies run by the Oregon Military Department.

DoD STARBASE is a 12-month, year-round educational program where students engage in up to 25 hours of challenging educational "hands-on, minds-on" activities in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Design, and Mathematics (STEAM). They also have an opportunity to explore careers and observe STEAM applications in the "real world" by interacting with STEAM professionals from their local communities. In FY 2024 to align with the Every Student Succeeds Act, Section 4107, the program transitioned from a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) program to a Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Design, and Mathematics (STEAM) program. Nationwide including Guam, and Puerto Rico there are 84 programs on Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Army, National Guard, Navy, and Space Force bases.

The program is sponsored by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Manpower and Reserve Affairs and is committed to providing quality education for children. DoD STARBASE programs are authorized to improve the knowledge and skills of students in kindergarten through 12th grade in STEAM by Section 2193b of Title 10, U.S.C. Curriculum is set by DoD STARBASE to ensure it meets national standards. Each site must ensure they meet the Standards, Objectives, and Activities (SOA) outlined in the Curriculum implementation guidebook. In August of every year, sites must provide a curriculum plan for the base 25-hour program for approval to ensure they are teaching and meeting key objectives of the STARBASE program.