STEM Educators Academy (SEA) is ExpandED School’s signature afterschool STEM initiative. SEA) empowers educators to offer engaging, academically-rich STEM afterschool programs for upper elementary and middle school students. Focused on relevant, hands-on, and design-based projects connected to the city’s science standards, the program is designed to nurture youth interest and engagement in STEM while also supporting educator skill development. Our youth centered curriculum, serving youth in grades 3–8, intentionally fosters STEM identity development, with a focus on celebrating diverse identities in STEM fields – counteracting the pervasive societal message that STEM is not for everyone – and making connections between STEM content and students’ experiences, communities, and interests. Through a year-long relationship with ExpandED Schools, participating sites have access to professional learning workshops and training, curriculum, customized coaching, a small stipend, and planning materials from ExpandED Schools.
ExpandED Schools works to make sure all young people in New York City and beyond have enriching, joyful learning experiences that affirm their identities and spark new possibilities. ExpandED provides afterschool programs with curricula and support; trains afterschool educators; and advances the afterschool sector through policy and research. Throughout it's history, STEM Educators Academy has collaborated with a variety of organizations, including the New York Hall of Science (NYSCI).