STEMM Parent Academy
Forging pathways for students to excel in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, & Medicine (STEMM).
Welcome to the STEMM PATH Navigator Academy (SPNA) for Parents!
CPASS launches this groundbreaking initiative to support families in their journey to raise a “STEMM-Ready” scholar. SPNA is designed to provide parents/guardians with essential tools, resources, & strategies to cultivate “STEMM readiness” from kindergarten to college.
Our comprehensive curriculum includes nine (9) sessions, each tailored to a specific scholar age group. Parents/guardians are empowered to customize their participation, joining as many sessions as they wish. Every session is approximately 1.5-2 hours. As part of our commitment to accessibility, every session will be recorded and shared exclusively with CPASS program participant families.
See below for course descriptions and registration. For more information contact us at: info@cpassfoundation.org
STEMM PATH Navigator Academy Schedule and Registration
The Power of Mathematics in STEMM
Age: Parents of All Ages
Date & Times:
October 29, 2024 @ 6:30 PM CST
Class Description:
This course will explore the critical role that mathematics plays in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM) fields. Parents will learn about the different types of math that are foundational for success in STEMM, and how these skills are applied in real-world STEMM careers. The course will also provide strategies to support their children in developing strong mathematical skills, and how to foster a positive attitude toward math learning at home.
Class Outcomes:
- Understand the Fundamental Role of Math in STEMM:
Gain a deep understanding of how mathematics is the language of STEMM fields, enabling everything from basic scientific calculations to complex engineering designs.. - Identify Essential Math Disciplines for STEMM:
Learn about key mathematical areas such as algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and linear algebra that are crucial for success in various STEMM careers. - Support Math Learning at Home:
Acquire practical tools and strategies to help your child develop a strong foundation in math, including how to create a math-friendly environment at home, use everyday situations to teach math concepts, and encourage a positive mindset towards math. - Foster Math Resilience:
Learn how to help your child overcome math anxiety and develop resilience, turning challenges into opportunities for growth. - Prepare for Advanced Math Courses:
Understand the progression of math education from elementary through high school and how to prepare your child for advanced math courses essential for STEMM readiness.
Building a Strong Foundation in Early Math Skills
Age group: Parents of K-5
Date & Times:
November 12, 2024 @ 06:30 PM CST
Class Description:
This course focuses on the essential early math skills that serve as the building blocks for future success in STEMM fields. Parents will learn about number sense, basic operations, and problem-solving techniques, along with strategies for incorporating math into daily routines.
Class Outcomes:
- Understand the key math concepts children need to master in elementary school.
- Discover fun, everyday activities that can reinforce math learning.
- Learn how to support your child’s math homework and encourage a love for numbers.
Reading and Writing in STEMM: Developing Literacy Skills
Age Group: Parents of K-5
Date & Times:
February 04, 2025 @ 06:30 PM CST
Class Description:
In this course, you will gain deeper
course emphasizes the importance of literacy in STEMM education, teaching parents how to integrate reading and writing into their child’s STEMM learning. Parents will explore ways to choose STEMM-themed books and encourage writing about science and technology topics.
Class Outcomes:
- Understand the role of literacy in supporting STEMM education.
- Learn how to select and read STEMM-related books with your child.
- Discover ways to encourage writing about STEMM topics.
The Role of Technology in STEMM Education
Age Group: Parents of 6th-8th grade
Date & Times:
November 26, 2024 @ 06:30 PM CST
Class Description:
Explore how emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science are shaping the future of STEMM fields. This course will also discuss how parents can encourage their children to engage with these technologies early on.
Class Outcomes:
- Understand the impact of emerging technologies on STEMM careers.
- Identify resources and tools to introduce students to advanced technologies.
- Explore ways to integrate technology into everyday learning.
Cultural Competence and STEMM
Age Group: Parents of 6th-8th grade
Date & Times:
January 07, 2025 @ 06:30 PM CST
Class Description:
This course will delve into the importance of cultural competence in STEMM fields, particularly for underrepresented students. It will cover how parents can foster an inclusive mindset and prepare their children to thrive in diverse environments.
Class Outcomes:
- Define cultural competence and its relevance in STEMM.
- Explore strategies to foster an inclusive mindset at home and in educational settings.
- Understand the importance of diverse perspectives in STEMM innovation.
Mental Health and Wellbeing in STEMM Students
Age Group: Parents of 6th-8th grade
Date & Times:
February 25, 2025 @ 06:30 PM CST
Class Description:
This session will address the mental health challenges that students might face in rigorous STEMM programs. It will provide parents with strategies to support their children’s mental and emotional well-being.
Class Outcomes:
- Recognize signs of stress and burnout in students.
- Learn techniques to promote mental health and resilience.
- Understand the importance of work-life balance in STEMM careers.
Overcoming Barriers & Advocacy Part 2
Age Group: Parents of 6th-8th grade
Date & Times:
May 13, 2025 @ 06:30 PM CST
Class Description:
Offer a deeper exploration of the systemic barriers that underrepresented students face in STEMM education, including socio-economic challenges, gender disparities, and racial biases. The course will provide actionable strategies for parents to advocate effectively for their children within the educational system and in the broader STEMM community.
Class Outcomes:
- Identify and understand the systemic barriers specific to your child’s educational journey.
- Develop tailored advocacy strategies to address socio-economic and cultural challenges.
- Learn from real-life case studies where effective advocacy led to positive outcomes.
- Empower your child to self-advocate and build resilience in the face of challenges.
Financial Literacy for STEMM Education
Age Group: Parents of 9th-12th grade
Date & Times:
Dec 10, 2024 @ 06:30 PM CST
Class Description:
This course will focus on understanding the financial aspects of pursuing STEMM education, including scholarships, grants, loans, and budgeting for college. Parents will learn how to help their children navigate the financial aid process and explore funding opportunities specific to STEMM programs .
Class Outcomes:
- Gain knowledge of available financial aid and scholarship options.
- Understand the financial planning process for college education.
- Learn strategies for reducing student debt.
STEMM and Academic Focus Part 2
Parents of 9th-12th grade
Date & Times:
March 18, 2025 @ 06:30 PM CST
Class Description:
Delve into the complexities of the college admissions process for STEMM programs, including how to craft a compelling application, the importance of specific coursework, test preparation, and the role of extracurriculars in strengthening applications.
Class Outcomes:
- Master the elements of a strong college application tailored to STEMM programs.
- Understand the academic expectations and prerequisites for top STEMM programs.
- Develop strategies for preparing for standardized tests and STEMM program interviews.
- Learn how to strategically choose and leverage extracurricular activities to enhance your child’s application.
Fostering STEMM interest with your child
As a parent, you can help foster your child’s interest in STEMM
- Encourage curiosity – encourage your child to ask questions and explore their interests. Be patient and supportive when they have questions or want to investigate something further.
- Provide hands-on activities at home – cook with them or do simple science experiments using things you already have at home.
- Challenge them to problem-solve – ask questions and allow them to provide solutions.
Get outdoors and explore. - Register for a STEMM Program – check out the CPASS Database of STEMM Programs here.
- Purchase STEMM related toys and books.
- Visit a museum – Chicago Public Libraries offer free passes to many of the area museums, check out their website.
- Read, read, read! – Introduce your child to books and magazines related to STEMM topics. Look for age-appropriate STEMM information.
- Support Their Interests – listen to your child’s specific interests within STEMM. Whether it’s robotics, medicine, coding, or biology, support their passions by providing resources and opportunities related to their interests.
- Support Math Skills – success in math is a foundational component of STEMM. Help your child develop strong math skills through practice and by explaining how math is used in everyday life.
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