Teams of STEAM

K-12 STEAM education

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

The issue being addressed by the i.am Angel Robotics program is the significant gap in access to quality STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education for students in underserved communities in Los Angeles. Many students in these areas lack the resources and opportunities to engage in hands-on learning experiences that are crucial for developing essential skills in technology and engineering. This initiative is crucial as it addresses the broader issue of educational inequality, where students from low-income backgrounds often do not have the same opportunities as their peers in more affluent areas. By focusing on robotics and STEAM education, the program helps bridge this gap, fostering an environment where all students can thrive and pursue high-paying, in-demand careers in technology​ and engineering.

The i.am Angel Robotics program, in partnership with the LAUSD, is designed to bridge the educational gap by providing underserved students with access to high-quality STEAM education. This grant will support the establishment and expansion of robotics clubs in 400 high schools, reaching 12,000 students across Los Angeles​. By addressing the lack of STEAM education resources in underserved communities, the i.am Angel Robotics program aims to empower students with the skills and confidence needed to pursue higher education and careers in technology, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and innovative future​.

The program will improve academic performance and college enrollment, especially among underserved students. Economically, this will contribute to workforce development by equipping students with the skills needed for modern tech and engineering jobs, resulting in a more skilled workforce, driving local tech industry growth & creating job opportunities. By fostering innovation and tech proficiency, it will attract new businesses, stimulate economic development, and lead to entrepreneurial ventures. Socially, it will reduce educational inequality and promote social mobility by providing equitable access to high-quality ed, empowering students from low-income backgrounds to pursue high-paying careers. It will foster community engagement by creating collaborative learning environments that strengthen ties among students, teachers, and parents. Long-term, it will inspire further investment in education & innovation, driving economic growth and fostering a more inclusive, equitable society.

We gather student and individual school feedback through surveys and interviews, collect observations from teachers and mentors, and assess community engagement and collaboration. Positive feedback from students indicates increased confidence and interest in STEAM careers. The most successful students go on to win their regional competitions and then progress to national and global competitions. We plan to measure improvements in academic outcomes, higher college application and acceptance rates in STEAM fields, and demonstrated skill proficiency in robotics. This evaluation framework ensures the program is successfully addressing educational inequality, promoting social mobility, and preparing students for future tech careers, driving long-term positive change.