By Sophia Lazar
Photo by Sophia Lazar
Willow freshman Abby Hunter has recently created STEM Squad, a new tutoring program for girls by girls (or those identifying as girls). Its focus is on ensuring a comfortable and non-intimidating learning environment for girls who need extra help in math and science subjects.
Scientific research and evidence support the idea that a single-sex environment is particularly beneficial to girls and helps promote self-confidence, as well as academic success. Granted, every student is different, and some may not be bothered at all by who they learn around, while others may be affected more. A study done in Chile found that females respond to the gender makeup of a classroom in a very different way than males, who are overall not nearly as affected by this. Studies show that this is particularly relevant when it comes to math classes. Sometimes girls can feel intimidated by others in a learning environment, so STEM Squad provides the opportunity to work in a small group or one on one with another girl.
One primary goal of this program is to promote girls in STEM, which is still a heavily male-dominated field. Program founder Hunter said, “I created the STEM squad because there is a huge gap in women in STEM. I feel like if girls know that they have support in these classes, such as this tutoring program, then they will continue to take STEM classes, which can lead to a STEM career.”
Abby and each of the program’s many tutors are devoted to forming positive attitudes toward STEM classes through a supportive, yet also fun environment. The squad does not want students to feel like seeking extra help is a tedious and boring task, so they do their best to make it enjoyable with plenty of encouragement, as well as some fun treats.
The program places a heavy influence on strengthening girls’ mindsets not only when it comes to school, but to life in general. “I’m hoping to change people’s mindsets and realize that they are actually good at math and science–they just needed a little bit of help,” Hunter said.
A large part of this is working to boost self-confidence, which the squad does by teaching that it is always good to ask questions, instead of discouraging students because they don’t know something. They ultimately want to see students have breakthroughs and are committed to doing whatever it takes to see significant growth throughout the learning process.
Every Tuesday and Thursday during lunch for the rest of the year, there will be multiple STEM squad tutors in the Arts Conference room (next to the theater), ready to help Willow’s girls with assignments and answer any math- and science-related questions.
