The Washington MESA model
All of our programs aim to increase representation of women and people who are Black, Indigenous, Latino/Hispanic or Native Hawaiian/Pacific islanders in STEM fields.
Our programs support students from middle school through college, and as they prepare for careers in STEM. We provide students with tutoring, specialized courses, mentorship and supportive networks. In addition, we offer training to teachers and parents so that everyone in a student’s orbit is better equipped to guide them through their educational journey.
Washington is one of the 11 states in the network of Mathematics, Engineering, Science, Achievement (MESA). MESA is nationally recognized for its innovative and effective academic development program.
2,886
Students Served
63
MESA Teachers
50
Participating Schools
22
School Districts
12
Community Colleges
2
Four-Year Colleges
Mission
We empower underrepresented students by providing them a community that supports their pathways to higher education in STEM, through mentorships, academic programs and interactive workshops.
Vision
Diverse student populations in Washington State have the educational support and tools to create innovative solutions as they become the next leaders in STEM.
Unique value proposition
Washington MESA advances social and economic equity by affirming and cultivating contributions of historically under-represented students in STEM education, industry and innovation leadership.
Our partners
- Boeing
- Weyerhaeuser
- Microsoft
- PNNL
- College Prep Universities
- All colleges that host MESA programs
What’s new?
In our quest to advance STEM educational opportunities for historically underrepresented students of color and women, Washington MESA has redesigned our program to align with contemporary challenges and needs. We’re bringing greater focus on students by offering more guided pathways to success and more options to get there.
A newly developed logic model identifies objectives and activities for every phase of the student’s educational journey, from sixth grade to a college degree. We’ll monitor the progress of MESA students and teachers, assess the program’s performance, demonstrate its impact, and hold ourselves accountable to our many supporters.
Our mission to give a voice and opportunities to diverse student populations hasn’t changed. What has changed is how we achieve that mission.