Sea Research Foundation, Inc. d/b/a Mystic Aquarium

Program Overview and Background

The overall goal of STEM Mentoring is to positively impact the social development and academic achievement of youth ages 6-10. STEM Mentoring consists of fun, hands-on activities, group projects, and multimedia connections that engage mentors and mentees in a variety of STEM topics, with a particular focus on conservation.

Program Services

Through weekly group mentoring sessions and additional STEM enrichment activities, youth are exposed to inspiring scientists, engineers, and conservationists, who represent a variety of careers and education pathways. By providing consistent, high-quality, STEM-focused mentoring experiences, STEM Mentoring encourages a reduction in high-risk behaviors, improvement of academic success indicators, and an overall increase in knowledge of and interest in STEM topics and careers for participating youth.

Target Population

STEM Mentoring targets at-risk youth ages 6-10, who a) live in communities with risk factors such as high rates of poverty, unemployment, violent crime, and/or drug addiction; b) attend schools that have a high percentage of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals and high rates of absenteeism; c) are American Indian or Alaska Native; d) have one or more parents in the military; and/or e) live in rural communities.