DC STEM

Close up of the lego design a student tutee with the DC STEM program is building.

Program History

DC STEM is a project-based science enrichment program. The program began in January 2015 and aims to increase students’ interest in and engagement with STEM topics, expand students’ awareness of STEM careers, and improve students’ academic performance in science and math coursework. The program provides STEM tutoring, project-based engagement, field trips, college and career programming, and connections with GU STEM faculty and programs. DC STEM participants work in close collaboration with DC Reads participants to work towards a mission of educational equity for DC youth in Wards 7 and 8.

Our Model

A team of Georgetown Student tutors collaborate to lead science, mathematics, engineering and technology explorations for elementary school children. The DC STEM curriculum is based on the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). This platform focuses on encouraging students to ask questions, plan investigations, analyze, model building, mathematical and computational thinking, and effectively communicate information/results.

Opportunities to Get Involved

Georgetown University Students

Tutors commit to tutor twice a week, either Monday/Wednesday and Tuesday/Thursday schedule. Each session requires roughly three hours, including van transportation to and from site. No STEM background or prior teaching or tutoring experience is required.

In addition to time spent at site, tutors receive pre-service and in-service training and professional development throughout the semester. Given the benefits of a consistent mentoring relationship, tutors must commit to at least one full semester.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

To lead a small group of students in science and engineering investigations in collaboration with another Georgetown University student tutor.
To participate in weekly tutor meetings led by DC STEM. student coordinators to review the upcoming lesson plans.
To attend all required trainings and DC STEM/DC Reads Events.
To attend scheduled field trips, science expos, and campus visits with your tutees.

School and Community Partners

If you are interested in a partnership with DC STEM or have any additional questions about the program, contact CSJ’s Associate Director for Educational Equity, Nicole Reeder, at dcstem@georgetown.edu.

If you have any other questions regarding DC STEM please contact CSJ Associate Director for Educational Equity, Nicole Reeder at dcstem@georgetown.edu.

The DC STEM Program falls under Georgetown University’s Protection of Minors policy.