Math, Engineering, and Science Achievement Program

Washington MESA builds a pathway to college and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) for student in STEM fields: African America, Native American and Latinos. Based on high academic standards and educational research, Washington MESA is a leader in educational reform to promote academic success and ultimately college graduation of our participating students. MESA students develop a high level of mathematics and science literacy so they can fully participate in a highly technological and competitive global economy. MESA works to support underrepresented students in achieving and contributing their full potential in science technology engineering and mathematics.

MESA's mission is to provide enriching learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) for underrepresented students through peer mentorship of exemplary hands-on, inquiry materials, experiential education opportunities and instructional approaches and serve as a catalyst and model for educational excellence and equity. We will be a catalyst and model for educational excellence and equity. MESA accomplished this through partnerships with universities and community colleges, school district, industry, and businesses, government agencies, community organizations, families and alumni.

Each MEAS Center works with our partners to engage students in high quality STEM activities, including peer mentors and engaging campus visits. These partnerships have been instrumental in supporting a great number of our target populations attending these universities. Washington State MESA has been singularly focused in bringing the challenges facing Native Americans, African Americans, Latino and females in Science and Math to the light, and working diligently in eliminating barriers.

For the past 25 years, MESA has helped raise the number of underrepresented minority students who earned STEM degrees. Building coalitions among students, teachers, administrators, parents and the community, MESA staff nurture and prepare each student. MESA provides the foundation for student on which to build their dreams!

Washington MESA opens the doors to higher education for K-12 students who are underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) professional – African American, Native American Latinos and women – forming collaborations among business, industry and academia. MESA strengthens the university and corporate presence in K-12 education. For more than 25 years, MEAS has bridged the opportunity gap for underrepresented students to help them envision a successful future and achieve their goals for college and careers. MESA students struggle against stereotypes and low expectation every day. With the help of volunteers in business and professional organizations, and teachers trained by MESA in the best education practices, they learn strategies to success, and meet role model and mentors who show them the way. More than 4,500 K-12 students benefit from rigorous math and science classes, after-school and summer bridge activities mentors and role models, college and scholarship preparation workshops, and one-on -one education and career advising. MESA delivers teachers professional development workshop and trainings, providing tools and skills to meet Washington State and national mathematics and science standards. MESA involves parents in the students’ education experience through academic information sessions, advocacy campaigns, and family math and science opportunities.

MESA motivates students to pursue studies in science and engineering by focusing on these areas: 1) Provide academic support services to MESA students, helping them to acquire the necessary credits and grades to enroll in a university level science technology, engineering and math-related fields.; 2) Provide career exploration activities in math and science professions; 3) Provide opportunities for men and woman from industry, universities, engineering societies and government agencies to work with MESA to target students in science, technology, engineering and math fields; and 4) Establish educational enrichment activities that prepare minorities for engineering and related careers. Grounded in high academic standards, educational research, and a 25 year track record, Washington MESA is a leader in programs that support students to succeed academically and go to college. Washington MESA is preparing the workforce for the 21st Century.