June 2024 NEWSLETTER

Full STEAM Forward is dedicated to promoting equity in science education by engaging girls of color, from underserved communities, in STEAM enrichment programs designed to foster a sustained passion for the sciences.

Joni Bessler

CEO, Full STEAM Forward

As part of our commitment to ensuring that our students are as prepared for the future as their more privileged peers, we’ve created a new Year 3 program focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI).

AI will soon be incorporated into almost all aspects of our jobs and lives, and students who don’t have opportunities to learn about and interact with AI will be at a disadvantage as they compete for future jobs. As such, we want to be the first to create and offer a program for FSF 5th and 6th graders which introduces them to the basics of AI, and helps them understand how it can be used across all disciplines. Through exposure and engagement with AI powered tools, our students will gain insights and skills to help them increase their productivity, expand their imaginations, and build competence.

Early Exposure to Cutting-Edge Technology: Teaching AI at an early age demystifies this complex field and makes it more accessible. Students will learn about the history behind AI, including how it works and how it can be applied in real-world scenarios, fostering a sense of familiarity and competence.

Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: AI projects encourage students to think critically and solve problems creatively. By working on AI-related tasks, students develop their ability to analyze data, identify patterns, and create innovative solutions.

Encouraging Curiosity and Innovation: Introducing AI concepts early in middle school ignites students' curiosity about the possibilities of technology. It inspires them to explore further and think about how they can use AI to solve problems and make a positive impact on the world.

Building Future-Ready Skills: As AI becomes increasingly integral to various industries, early education in AI equips students with the skills they will need for future careers. Understanding AI principles prepares them for a world where technology plays a central role. We can’t let our girls get left behind!

We are delighted to announce that FSF is adding more in-person sessions this fall! While our virtual sessions have been incredibly successful and continue to grow, we have adapted our STEAM curriculum to accommodate students who attend in-person after-school programs. Our newest school partner, PS 94 in Brooklyn, will have two in-person and one on-line cohort, and we’re adding additional in-person classes in DC and Philly as well!  

Our in-person and virtual sessions cover the same topics, but each is adapted to leverage the unique learning environment in which the girls are meeting. These in-person classes, like our virtual offerings, ensure that all our students have access to high-quality STEM education, regardless of their location.

Since our launch in 2020, we’ve expanded our partnerships to reach girls in NYC, Philadelphia, DC, Kenya, and Ghana. As always, we are thankful to our funders and supporters for providing us with the means to serve so many deserving students. And, we look forward to serving so many more!

Full STEAM Forward's work would not be possible without the financial backing of our sponsors and community partners. Thank you for your support of our mission!