EMPOWERING ALL STUDENTS.
It is projected that by 2018 there will be a need for 8.65 million workers in STEM-related jobs, mainly in the fields of computing, traditional engineering, physical sciences, life sciences and mathematics. People with disabilities are currently underrepresented in these fields, yet according to the Committee on Equal Opportunities in Science and Engineering, students with disabilities comprise one of the largest untapped pools of potential scientists, engineers, technologists, mathematicians, and technicians.
Beginning in 2016, Astellas USA Foundation is underwriting the creation of a new model program for STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) for students with learning disabilities at Cove. Through this new program, students have access to cutting edge STEAM programming with the full range of academic, social and emotional support needed to provide collaborative learning with individualized adaptations for students with learning disabilities. In February, students will participate in the first-ever Cove School STEAM Science Fair.
Accommodating students with disabilities in quality K-12 science and mathematics courses is often challenging. Many students with disabilities are instead relegated to different classrooms for remediation during STEAM-type activities. As a result, these students receive little to no exposure to analyzing problems and developing solutions through collaborative learning. All too often, students with learning disabilities fail to receive any preparation for the rigors of university education in STEAM fields.
The Cove School is a private school providing a nurturing environment for more than 150 K-12 students with learning disabilities in classes with no more than 10 students. Cove serves students from over 50 school districts throughout the Chicago metropolitan area as well as Milwaukee. While Cove students frequently failed to thrive educationally and socially at other schools, at Cove they feel safe, yet challenged, to reach their fullest academic and social potential, resulting in an impressive 98 percent graduation rate.
Astellas USA Foundation is proud to support the valuable efforts of The Cove School. In prior years, Astellas USA Foundation helped Cove install a new playground, sports fields, outdoor learning space and running track as part of its Health and Wellness Initiative.
The Astellas USA Foundation grant will help provide funding for teacher training and professional development, curriculum, materials and resources, and science equipment.
Thanks to their Cove education and the support of Astellas USA Foundation, Cove graduates go on to enroll in post-secondary education programs and are equipped with job skills and provided customized learning strategies needed for career readiness and real world job experiences.
