Jersey STEM’s mission:

Jersey STEM is a network of parents, professionals, students and educators whose goal is to promote excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (“STEM”) education. We are dedicated to partnering with local schools and other organizations to create and enhance STEM-oriented educational opportunities as part of students’ paths towards college and career readiness, and to develop effective STEM programs and initiatives that engage students and educators. Jersey STEM is also committed to bridging the gender gap in STEM education and sharing STEM-related opportunities with underprivileged students and communities.

Jersey STEM’s Goals

1. More meaningful STEM opportunities for every child.
2. Ensure girls have the same exposure as boys.
3. Attend under served communities.

Programs

Past programs have included robotics with EV3 and First Tech Challenge, as well as Girls Who Code, AstroFun, facilitating older students teaching younger students through Teach It Forward, and STEM Trips

Parent cooperative

It is a parent cooperative.  So if your kids participate expect to volunteer somewhere within the organization and to “pitch in” if you are attending an event.  This is not “drop & go” as when parents pay for a class through your recreation department or other traditional provider.

The organization’s ultimate intent is to enrich area public schools by building interest. Programs are built around curriculum standards with the ultimate goal of migrating programs to area schools.

Sign up opportunities and social media

They can also be found on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Sign up for their mailing list  signup.jerseystem.org or update your preferences.  This is the best way to find out about classes.  They aren’t always listed on the web site.

Students, parents and professionals can inquire about getting involved here.

Detailed descriptions of volunteer opportunities can often be found on Volunteer Match .

Why a $5 fee for signing up for all Jersey Stem events?

You might not realize it, but paying for insurance each year is a significant expense.  Jersey STEM, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and similar organizations must provide a Certificate of Insurance to most of the locations that host events.  Similarly, there are fixed costs associated with starting and running an official charity (a 501c3).  Insurance is one of the reason most PTA and school events need to have a  teacher or school employee present.   It also improves attendance estimates.

ChathamSTEM

Jersey STEM is ChathamSTEM rebranded.  While the 501c3 was born in Chatham, New Jersey, interest quickly spread to surrounding towns so it was rebranded  to better communicate that those from surrounding towns are also welcome.