Engaging students to increase their interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) is crucial to maintaining the STEM pipeline. In particular, studies have shown that students begin to lose interest in STEM in middle school and that students in low-income, socioeconomically disadvantaged schools are disproportionately affected. As part of the Erie Public Schools and United Way of Erie County Community School Initiative, Gannon University piloted an afterschool STEM program Feeding Minds and Families at Strong Vincent Middle School. In this six-week program, students were mentored by Gannon University STEM faculty and local STEM professionals in topics ranging from DNA technology to computational thinking. The program used family meals as an opportunity for engagement across all stakeholders. This presentation describes the collaboration, program development, and outcomes for improving STEM interest through activities that engage students and their families.
