Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) are the focus of a new after-school program at the Boys & Girls Clubs, lead by Alex Brown-Ward. Activities for elementary-aged members include math and strategy games, chess, chemistry, junior engineers, and “Weird Science.”
Brown-Ward majored in biology at San Jose State with a focus on science education. The Sonoma native and Sonoma Valley High School grad said his love for science was sparked by a former teacher, Mr. Neally. “He was the first teacher who really gave me the freedom to believe in my ideas,” Brown-Ward said. “It was a valuable introduction to critical thinking that changed my life.”
Nationally, only 16 percent of high school seniors are proficient in mathematics and interested in a career in science or technology, said Rachel Cusick, the Club’s director of development. “Yet, careers in STEM industries are among the highest paying and fastest growing in the nation,” she said. “We believe (STEM) will lead some kids into a lifetime of learning, interest, and potentially viable new career paths.”
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