MC STEM Volunteer Program
in Partnership with MCPS

The program recruits experienced and passionate STEAM professionals from diverse backgrounds, including scientists, engineers, technologists, artists, mathematicians, and more. These volunteers (guest speakers, mentors, judges, etc.) undergo a screening process to ensure their expertise aligns with the program's goals and their commitment to education.

Once selected, mentors are paired with MCPS K-12 teachers who have expressed interest in incorporating STEAM concepts into their curriculum. The pairing is based on the volunteer's expertise and the specific needs and interests of the teachers. The program organizers facilitate this matchmaking process to ensure compatibility and effective collaboration.

The volunteer program operates through a combination of virtual and in-person interactions. Volunteers and teachers communicate regularly through video conferencing, emails, and other digital platforms, allowing for ongoing support and guidance. 

The volunteer program is highly flexible and adaptable, catering to the unique requirements of each teacher and their class. Volunteers assist teachers in various ways, including:

• Subject-specific expertise: Volunteers provide insights and knowledge related to their STEAM field, sharing real-world applications and helping teachers align classroom content with practical experiences.

• Curriculum enhancement: Volunteers collaborate with teachers to supplement STEAM lesson plans by bringing their knowledge to bear on the subjects and engaging students to think critically and solve problems.

• Resource sharing: Volunteers help identify and share relevant educational resources, including books, websites, software tools, and hands-on materials, to enrich the classroom experience and keep up with the latest advancements in their respective fields.

• Project-based learning: Volunteers support teachers in implementing project-based learning activities, fostering creativity, teamwork, and interdisciplinary thinking among students.

• Career guidance: Volunteers share their professional journeys and experiences, exposing students to diverse STEAM career paths and providing guidance on educational and career choices.

By connecting STEAM professionals with teachers and classes at all levels, the STEAM Professional Volunteer Program aims to inspire and empower the next generation of innovators, problem solvers, and leaders in the STEAM fields, ultimately fostering a more robust and dynamic educational landscape.

To learn more about the MCPS  STEAM Professional Volunteers, please check out the informational flyer of the MC STEM Volunteer Program, the educational non profit organization (501 c3), which recruits volunteers for the program.

Students benefit by including STEAM professionals as volunteers and mentors in the classroom by gaining real-world expertise, exploring career options, finding inspiration, improving problem-solving skills, building confidence, and receiving personalized guidance for success in STEAM disciplines. View the video below for examples of volunteers supporting MCPS Teachers.