This project will give middle school students from low-income communities access to the inspiring learning experiences they deserve in science, technology, engineering and math subjects. Students will work with mentors from tech companies, including Google, in CA, MA, NY, & NC, in afternoon "apprenticeship" classes to build critical academic skills and raise school and career aspirations.
There is a critical opportunity gap in education. Students in upper-income families spend 300 more hours each year with adults than the three million children who go to schools where most of their peers are likely to drop out before graduating. We can close this gap by connecting students who want to learn and adults who have something to teach. We can fill children's afternoons with the kind of moments of discovery that give students the skills, access and beliefs they need to succeed.
Afternoon "apprenticeship" classes led by mentors from tech companies turn students into young scientists, engineers, and computer programmers. They allow students to work alongside real-world experts, experiencing success with successful adults. They develop new skills and new dreams for the future.
Citizen Schools aims to close the opportunity gap for low-income students across the country and ultimately end the systemic educational inequity that threatens our nation's future. Students who experience Citizen Schools in middle school go on to graduate high school at a rate 20% higher than their matched peers and enroll in college at a rate more than double that of matched peers.
