STEMM Scholars Academy

For High School Students Passionate About Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Medicine (STEMM)
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5-Week STEMM Exploration on a College Campus.

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Networking with STEMM Professionals of Color.

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Free Program with No Cost to Students.

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Holistic Development Beyond Academics.

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Access to College Prep Resources.

Table Of Contents

Welcome Message

Program Team & Partners

Program Overview

Application & Eligibility

Frequently Asked Questions

Get Involved

Welcome to the CPASS Foundation STEMM Scholars Academy!

If you’re a high school freshman with a passion for science, technology, engineering, math, or medicine (STEMM), you’re in the right place. Our residential STEMM program offers a remarkable opportunity for a five-week journey that awaits you after your 9th-grade year.

Imagine immersing yourself in the world of STEMM on a college campus, surrounded by like-minded peers. In Year 1, you’ll embark on a STEMM exploration with our esteemed partners, including Lewis University, the Museum of Science and Industry, and The Chicago School.

But that’s just the beginning! In the following two summers, you’ll delve into a diverse range of classes, from math and science to project-based STEMM workshops, college prep, peace and social justice, and English language arts.

Our program extends beyond the classroom, providing exclusive networking opportunities with STEMM professionals of color, visits to industry partners, mentorship, and more.

Even during the academic year, you won’t miss out. We offer intensive math enrichment, career workshops, networking opportunities, and college prep resources – all at no cost to you. We believe in empowering every young mind to excel in STEMM, and that’s why our program is 100% free.

Are you ready to embrace the future of STEMM education? Start your STEMM adventure with us today and join us in shaping the face and future of STEMM!

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Ignite Your STEMM Potential

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Culturally Relevant STEMM Education

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Personal Growth and Confidence Building.

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Leadership Skills Development.

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Access to Cutting-Edge STEMM Facilities.

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What You Get

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Exposure to Hands-On STEMM Projects.

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Build Lifelong Friendships with Like-Minded Peers.

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Unique Insights into STEMM Career Paths.

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Mentorship from Industry Experts.

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Enhanced Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills.

At the core of our program, we uphold these guiding principles:

  1. Empowering Tomorrow’s Innovators: Our mission is to empower and inspire the next generation of diverse STEMM leaders. We’re dedicated to fostering your curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, preparing you for a bright future in the world of STEMM.
  2. Accessible STEMM Education: We’re committed to breaking down barriers to STEMM education. Our program welcomes all eligible students, and it’s entirely cost-free. Our goal is to ensure that every young mind, regardless of their background, has an equal opportunity to explore the vast realm of STEMM.
  3. Holistic Development: Our commitment extends beyond academics. We prioritize your holistic development, emphasizing essential life skills such as teamwork and critical thinking. These skills will serve you well in any field, paving the way for a successful and fulfilling future.

Our Team

  • Program Director: Experienced leader in STEMM education.
  • Instructors: Passionate educators in specialized fields.
  • Residential Staff: Ensures safety and support on campus.

Our dedicated team is here to guide and support you.

museum of science+industry chicago logo
Lewis University logo
The Chicago School
museum of science+industry chicago logo
The Chicago School
Lewis University logo

Our Partners

  • Museum of Science and Industry: Located in Chicago, offering hands-on learning experiences.
  • University Partners: University Partners: Lewis University and The Chicago School.

These esteemed institutions share our commitment to STEMM education.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

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Year 1 (Freshman Summer): 5-week STEMM career exploration.

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Years 2 & 3 (Sophomore and Junior Summers): Rigorous STEMM curriculum.

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Academic Year Support: Math enrichment, mentoring, and more.

Apply by the deadline to join our exclusive STEMM program.
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Application & Eligibility

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GPA Requirement: Minimum current 3.0 GPA or equivalent.

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Underrepresented in STEMM: Specific ethnic/racial backgrounds.

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Math Skills: Requirements for 9th and 10th graders.

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Location: Reside in designated Illinois areas.

Apply by the deadline to join our exclusive STEMM program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a residential STEM program, and how does it differ from regular summer camps or programs?

Students will live on a college campus in the dormitories with residential staff for 5-weeks during the summer. Students will not be permitted to go home during this time period.

Who is eligible to attend the program? Is there an age or grade requirement?**
The program is open to current 9th and 10th grade students with an interest in STEMM and demonstrated academic achievement in math and science.

Students must be from ethnic/race backgrounds underrepresented in STEMM.

What are the program dates, and how long does it last?**
The summer academy will run for five (5) weeks from July 6 – August 10, 2024.
What STEM subjects or topics will be covered in the program?
Students will take classes in math, science, and digital literacy.
What is the curriculum like? Are there hands-on activities and projects?
While the students will be presented with a rigorous curriculum they will have the support and hands-on experiences to support the knowledge and skills.
Is the program competitive, and how are participants selected?
This is an extremely competitive program with approximately 15 students admitted annually. Students must complete an application (with essay) and participate in interviews as part of the the application and selection process.
What are the housing and accommodation arrangements?
All students will be housed in college dormitories with at least one roommate. Residential staff including a Program Director, Residential Director, and Residential Assistants will be present at all times while maintaining a 10:1 ratio of students to adults.
How much does the program cost, and are there scholarships or financial aid options available?
If a student is accepted into the program it is 100% free, including fees for supplies, field trips, etc.! Therefore financial aid and scholarships are not necessary.
What safety measures and supervision are in place during the program?
Residential staff including a Program Director, Residential Director, and Residential Assistants will be present at all times while maintaining a 10:1 ratio of students to adults. This ratio is also maintained in the classroom, as well as throughout all programming (i.e. travel/field trips). All staff are required to complete a background check.
Are there any extracurricular activities or field trips included in the program?
While the students are immersed in rigorous classroom activities, there will be field trips and fun activities during the week and on weekends.
Upon completion of the program will students receive college credit, be guaranteed college scholarships, or admission to partner universities?
Currently, the program does not offer college credit, and completing the program does not guarantee college scholarships or admission to partner universities.

Get Involved

Are you a STEMM Professional interested in volunteering and/or providing invaluable field trip experiences for our students?

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