In the spirit of Grace Lee Boggs and her profound insights on the education system, I find her identification of three critical myths both timely and resonant with the mission we've embraced at STEM to the Future.
Boggs challenges us to rethink (1) the purpose of education beyond mere earning potential, (2) the narrow metrics of academic achievement, and (3) the traditional confines of where and how learning happens. These myths are the very ones we're actively working to debunk through our programming at STTF.
Our journey at STTF is inspired by the belief that Black and brown youth carry within them the brilliance and power to effect change. Through STEAM programs grounded in social justice, we're not just educating; we're revolutionizing the landscape of learning. We recognize that the true essence of education extends far beyond the classroom walls, embracing the lived experiences, interests, and developmental stages of our students.
We're proving that schools are not the only place where learning happens. Our programs support students as young as 5 in developing the skills needed to be leaders in their community and students as young as 8 see how they can use they skills to develop solutions to unmet needs in their community. This hands-on, problem posing approach not only enriches their learning experience but also supports youth in actualizing a future they deserve.
By challenging the traditional metrics of achievement, we've shown that education can and should be measured by the impact students have on their communities and the world. Our work goes beyond fixing the "leaky STEM pipeline"; we're ensuring it leads not into a toxic pond but into an ocean of opportunity, inclusivity, and community-led change.
We're transforming the narrative around education and creating spaces where our youth can thrive, belong, and lead. We're not just questioning the status quo; we're redefining it.
#STEMtotheFuture #SocialJusticeEducation #STEAM #EducationalEquity #GraceLeeBoggs #RethinkingEducation #PlantingtheSeed
