Meet Our February HALO Effect Honoree, Stanley Celestine!
Have you ever heard of STEM? Do you know what it stands for? Do you know what kind of impact it will have on the future of education?
15 year-old Stanley Celestine is a champion of the STEM curriculum. A fervent advocate for giving STEM subjects the focus and attention they deserve, Stanley founded WETEACHSTEM, an educational program in his hometown of Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana. We caught up with our HALO Effect honoree for the month of February to learn more about his vision and what STEM is really all about.
Can you explain 'STEM' to those who might not know what it stands for?
STEM is an acronym referring to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. I've considered STEM to be a multi-disciplined approached to teaching and learning that integrates science, technology, engineering & mathematics, with the objective of strengthening problem solving skills and curiosity. One unique thing about STEM is rather than approaching these disciplines as separate subjects, STEM requires a partnership from students, teachers, and parents to think about how these disciplines work together.
Why do you think STEM is so important in school curricula? What would you say to someone who thinks of himself/herself as "more of an English and History" person?
Our society is becoming more STEM-focused each and every day. Students will need to have experiences and exposure to a variety of STEM topics in order to survive. Research has shown that American students are performing below other countries in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. I believe that students should be exposed to STEM in elementary school. This lays a foundation for later success and exposure at a young age will increase proficiency and interest in STEM subjects. Implementing a STEM curricula also allows students to become problem solvers and collaborate with peers. For someone who's more of an English or History person, I would strongly recommend to research how that particular subject relates to STEM.
WETEACHSTEM offers several different programs which one is your favorite?
My favorite WETEACHSTEM Program is our STEM Education Program. This program has a huge impact on student's attitude and achievement in the areas of mathematics and science. This program also addresses a national issue facing our country. When I developed this program the goal of it was to improve the recruitment and preparation of African Americans and other minority students, particularly women through participation in STEM Enrichment Workshops that improve students' knowledge in a variety of STEM areas.
As a student, do you feel like you bring a unique perspective when working with members of the school board? How have you made your vision clear?
Yes, there is a common core value that recognizes WETEACHSTEM as a resource for schools, families, and the community. The school board acknowledges both the need and desire to maintain this partnership in the face of changes in the nature of families, the workforce and societal expectations for schools. I've made my vision clear by presenting research based presentations and relating my experiences with programs similar to WETEACHSTEM to school board officials.
What has been one of your most rewarding experiences with WeTeachSTEM thus far?
Building long-lasting, caring relationships with youth, families, and members of the community.
To learn more about Stanley and his organization, check out this video below!
