What we do

engagE k-12 students in STEM and Design Thinking

Breaking down systemic barriers begins early. From the moment students enter school, they start forming ideas about their future paths. Our approach focuses on reaching students from historically underserved communities at key stages throughout their K-12 journey, supporting them in overcoming long-standing obstacles.

In elementary school, we spark curiosity in subjects like math and science—fields that are strong indicators of future opportunities. By middle school, we introduce design-thinking methods, encouraging eighth graders to tackle real-world challenges relevant to their lives and communities. At the high school level, especially in alternative programs, we collaborate to create meaningful experiences that help students link what they learn to their future goals.

Our student engagement model

The In4All engagement model is one-of-a-kind in Oregon and possibly the nation in engaging students at multiple points in their K-12 experience.

The In4All model engages students at multiple points in their K-12 experience.


Mobilizing community to change lives

Research shows that connecting students from historically underserved communities with industry professionals helps foster positive attitudes, a growth mindset, and a sense of belonging in school. Our programs provide multiple opportunities for students to engage with industry volunteers throughout the year, creating a deeper impact than one-time visits. By the end of our elementary and middle school programs, students will have interacted with local professionals 20 times, with some continuing into high school work experiences. This level of engagement helps students see new possibilities for their futures, while also impacting the volunteers (or co-learners) who participate.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

The STEM Connect 4/5 program partners a business with a local elementary school to deliver hands-on learning experiences in the classroom that increase interest in STEM-related fields.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

The new middle school program partners a business and middle school to create a design thinking challenge for eight grade students to solve problems in their community.

HIgh School

Our high school program mobilizes the community to co-create programs that provide meaningful experiences to students enrolled in alternative schools and programs.