We Belong in STEM

Mayor Todd Gloria signaled April 18th as “You Belong in STEM Day” in San Diego. To kick off the new federal initiative, Deputy Superintendent Cindy Marten visited Nipaquay Elementary, to see belonging in action.

STEAM at San Diego Unified started under Marten’s leadership as Superintendent. Since she started the STEAM initiative over 5 years ago, I was curious about how she felt about her visit. Dreaming big turned out to be more than she ever imagined. She hopes others come here to Nipaquay to see what education can look like and that more schools become spaces where all students belong in STEM.

However, what does it mean to belong in STEM? Local organization San Diego Squared: SD2 asked students to share their thoughts. Check out this video they shared to hear their voices and get inspired to make a difference:

Speakers from the San Diego STEM community and the Department of Education shared their hopes for the initiative at the “YOU Belong in STEM” event. Attendees had a chance to talk more about what it means to support students in STEM. With historic funding at the Federal level, more students should gain access to STEM education and career opportunities.

Additionally, our San Diego Unified STEAM Team submitted our commitment to our youth and teachers. I’m excited to see what we will be able to do to transform outcomes for all students. Hope you will join us in the movement and share your commitment too!