Steps-2-STEM is a STEM enrichment program that expands access to high quality STEM learning opportunities for elementary students in the Lincoln cluster.
Overview
Once a week 4th and 5th grade students from SDUSD Lincoln cluster elementary schools visit the Elementary Institute of Science. Students rotate through four STEM labs, where they engage in hands-on learning in subjects such as earth & space science, physical science, life science, computer science, engineering, and more. Each session lasts five weeks, with the goal of immersing students in the equivalent of 20-25 hours of STEM learning.
PARTNER SCHOOLS:
- Baker Elementary
- Balboa Elementary
- Johnson Elementary
- Cesar Chavez Elementary
- Porter Elementary
- Chollas-Mead Elementary
- Webster Elementary
- Horton Elementary
- Nye Elementary
- Encanto Elementary
- Valencia Park
Highlights
In 2026, Steps-2-STEM will celebrate its tenth anniversary of supporting children at Title I elementary schools in southeastern San Diego. What started as a pilot program in 2016 with four elementary schools now serves all 11 elementary schools in the Lincoln cluster of Southeastern San Diego. Steps-2-STEM has served 11,100 elementary students.
Successful programs require continuous improvements to keep up with technology and social change. This requires training for staff, updated supplies, and increased funding. We continuously embrace new technologies, processes, and evaluations to enhance our youth programs.
Teachers report that the program content is invaluable, helping students dive deeper into the subject matter.
“The curriculum planners do not just target a science concept, an accompanying assignment, and writing in a journal about the student understanding. They plan for students to truly investigate a concept and pair this with drawings as well as other materials to cement that learning.” 5th Grade Teacher
What Our Students Think of EIS
This was my son’s 3rd year doing EIS, and he loves it everytime! Every time I pick him up he can’t wait to tell me about the neat projects he did. He is really enthusiastic about learning new things
Denise V (Shawn, 10)
Danika has learnt so many topics at EIS. She also loves her instructors and is looking forward to registering for the spring programs.
Lesean G (Danika, 7)
EIS has been a very positive experience for my daughter Sophia. She is excited to go every week and I’m happy that she’s learning while doing something she loves.
Luis H (Sophia, 8)