STEM in Afterschool

K-12 students spend just 20% of their 16 waking hours in school. More than 80% of their time is spent learning outside of school—at afterschool and summer programs, in libraries, at home, or in the community. All students need opportunities to engage in quality STEM learning experiences. Afterschool and summer programs provide hands-on learning opportunities and a natural space for students to explore, learn, and grow. These programs spark students’ interest in STEM and computer science subjects, expose them to future careers, and support school-day learning, all while developing a new generation of problem solvers.
Whether piloting the next crewed mission to the Moon or helping solve the greatest challenges facing our country and world, students in afterschool programs today will soon be on the front lines, in the labs developing solutions, and applying their STEM knowledge to make informed decisions about the world around them. Working together with schools, businesses, community organizations, and informal science institutions, afterschool programs can help equip all young people to play a role in addressing our most pressing issues.

STEM in Hawai‘i 

According to the America After 3PM survey, 37,572 Hawai‘i children participate in an afterschool program and 22,740 children have opportunities to participate in STEM learning in those programs.
  • 71% of parents agree that STEM learning in afterschool helps kids gain interest and skills related to STEM
  • 64% of parents report that STEM and computer science are an important factor for a majority when selecting their child’s afterschool program

Mizzen Education: Phone App

Picture
​Mizzen Education partners with the out-of-school time community to provide high-quality resources and experiences for youth-serving professionals that spark curiosity, joy and a love of learning for children and youth. Supported by the Mott Foundation, Mizzen is an app available at no cost to those who are empowering young learners everywhere! Click on the button below to read more about how Mizzen works and discover the ways it can support your children!

Transformative Practices

All transformative practice resources have been vetted using a culturally responsive and equity lens to foster inclusive STEM learning spaces for all youth. The activities include both local and national opportunities for students.

We will continue to add and modify resources to meet the needs of the partners and providers across the state. Please contact us if you have any questions or needs we can support!

Resources

Hawai‘i Afterschool Alliance
University of Hawai‘i
1776 University Avenue, ​WA1-102
Honolulu, HI 96822
808-956-6515