Our work is reliant on strong partnerships and collaborations with a variety of stakeholders within an ecosystem. These relationships are built upon assets, mutual respect, and the common goal of providing equitable, high-quality STEM.
K-12 STEM programs for students are run by our colleagues in the WPI Office of Pre-Collegiate Outreach Programs.
Learning happens not only in the classroom but in informal spaces, and educators include peers, family members, and community members. We work with the greater Worcester community and the STEM Learning Ecosystems to broaden participation in STEM for equity and access to high-quality STEM experiences, especially for those that have been historically excluded or face systemic barriers.
Our teacher preparation program partners with Girls, Inc. of Worcester, Boys & Girls Club of Fitchburg/Leominster, and the EcoTarium to embed our pre-service teachers in our local community. Many of the WPI undergraduate team projects with the STEM Education Project Center focus on access to STEM education opportunities in our community and work with local community-based organizations.
We are fortunate to be a host site for an AmeriCorps VISTA member to build the capacity at WPI to strengthen community partnerships. Current projects involve engaging STEM students and professionals to provide virtual (during the time of COVID), hands-on STEAM Together activities and career exploration mentorship for youth in the Worcester area.
As a recognized state leader in STEM education, we manage the Central Massachusetts STEM Network Ecosystem and annually coordinate STEM Week in Central MA.
