Class Matters inc.
Empowering Our Future, One Teen at a Time
What is Class Matters?
Founded in August of 2010, Class Matters Inc., a remote 501(c)3 organization that strives to inspire change through its vision of “Empowering, Our Future, One Teen at a Time.” Its mission is to develop and nurture future engineers, entrepreneurs, and leaders who embrace their potential and enable others’ full potential. Class Matters uses its seven pillars to create and/or strengthen opportunities that build and prepare a pipeline of talent for overall workforce-ready or college-ready youth in Science, Technology, Engineering and/or Math (STEM) plus medicine for middle and high school students.
Annual Participation and Impact Averages in 6th-12th Grade Students
Class Matters' goal is to increase youth exposure, provide access, and develop skills in science, technology, engineering, and math-related studies, degrees, and careers.
WE DO THAT THROUGH THESE 7 PILLARS:
01: Classes
A year-long program targeting young people with a curriculum that emphasizes character, leadership, academic, student success, entrepreneurship, & STEM.
02: esteam
Bi-monthly leadership, mentoring, & college prep program, utilizing workshops, team building, college & corporate tours, job shadowing, STEM fairs & experiences.
03: stem like me
Bi-annual event simulates pre-college to careers day in the life of a future STEM professional, shadowing experiences to youth to aid future planning for life after high school.
04: early stem village
Weekly workforce program using peer to near peer model to provide youth-led STEM instruction to elementary students in rural and urban communities.
05: service matters
Quarterly service-learning program provides employment and computer education assistance for elderly and families experiencing homelessness. Service examples: A Walk for Education, Food & Gift giveaways for families during the holidays, assisting seniors with online grocery shopping and technology assistance.
06: spark summer camp
A 6-week, 6 hour per day fully STEM-based experience, providing a real-world, mock work experience.
07: Recognition Matters
Annual awards banquet occurs in April to recognize and honor program participants who have made a significant impact in the
community. The event also recognizes mentors, volunteers, student leaders, college & corporate scholarship sponsors & donors.
