TI co-hosts "STEM in the Schoolyard" for California students

08/13

In late July, TI and Family Giving Tree hosted "STEM in the Schoolyard" for Downtown College Prep (DCP) students in California. The event marked the culmination of the Downtown College Prep Alum Rock's Summer Bridge Program for incoming, low-income 6th grade students.
                 
Held at the Santa Clara University, the afternoon event for the students and their families included inspiring presentations by elected officials, hands-on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) activities, followed by a reception. TI representatives provided each student, the first in their family to go to college, a supply-filled backpack from Family Giving Tree and TI-30XS MultiView™ scientific calculators donated by TI. 

Elected officials, as well as leaders from the participating organizations, discussed the importance of collaboration between government, business, community and education to engage students in STEM education and provide all students with the tools they need to succeed.

"We all agree that education plays a significant role in breaking the cycle of poverty in our communities," said Dave Heacock, Senior Vice President and Manager of TI Silicon Valley Analog. "We are committed to STEM education and helping ensure that under-represented students have the resources and support to succeed in STEM subjects." TI is also providing the DCP math department with TI-Nspire Teacher Software, class sets of the TI-Nspire™ CX Technology and professional development for the teachers to effectively integrate the technology into the Mathematical Practices of the Common Core State Standards.

"With the right tools, mindset and support from the community, DCP students prevail in their pursuit of a college education. We're proud to partner with TI and Family Giving Tree to launch our students on the college path," said Jennifer Andaluz, Co-founder and Executive Director for Downtown College Prep.

"All of the students we honored are the first in their families to be college bound," added Jennifer Cullenbine, Founder and CEO for Family Giving Tree. "Imagine what it means to them to be well prepared to pursue their dreams and create a better life. We are thrilled to play a small part in their future success."