What We Do
The Chicago STEM Pathways Cooperative is a community-driven initiative that works to address inequities in the STEM learning continuum.
In our 2013 State of STEM in Out-of-School Time in Chicago Report, we identified that Chicago has a wealth of STEM learning opportunities for youth, in classrooms and through out-of-school time experiences. However, challenges to access and equity continue to persist for young people – particularly those from communities traditionally underrepresented in the sciences. In response to the data, the Chicago STEM Pathways Cooperative (STEM Co-op) was formed.
"STEM Pathways" are defined as the progressive collection of STEM experiences a young person has from early childhood to adulthood. The STEM Co-op works to build and support robust STEM Pathways that enable young people to get and stay involved in STEM.