SMILE - Science and Math Investigative Learning Experiences
All of LaCuKnoS will take place within the context of ongoing SMILE program activities for design and development with SMILE teachers and implementation with SMILE students.
SMILE is a longstanding OSU Precollege Program with over 32 years of presence in Oregon's rural communities.
SMILE is a rural afterschool STEM program run by Precollege Programs at Oregon State University (OSU). The SMILE program mission is to increase underrepresented students’ success in STEM degree programs and careers, and deliver high-quality teacher professional development. SMILE provides a broad range of pathway programs to help underrepresented students succeed in STEM degrees and careers while providing professional development that support teachers.
SMILE Clubs work with underserved students, students who are from low income households, and those who would be the first in their families to go to college to support and build STEM related skills. SMILE provides professional development to a community of teachers and engages K-12 grade students in STEM activities year round while also incorporating art, design and communication in the curriculum and contributing to creative and innovative problem solving.
SMILE Teachers
SMILE teachers are typically math or science teachers who commit to planning and facilitating SMILE program activities at their schools and communities all year round.
Each SMILE club is led by one or two teachers who commit to planning and facilitating weekly afterschool club meetings, occasional field trips, and holding an annual SMILE Family Math and Science Night for their school community. Teachers prepare students to annual SMILE Challenge and College Connection events and attend two to three SMILE professional development workshops during the school year.
SMILE Curriculum, designed club activities, events and sessions cover a variety of STEM topics, meet Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Common Core Standards for Oregon.
Additionally, a statewide community network for inclusive STEM education provides support for SMILE clubs in rural communities across Oregon. By applying existing engagement model (see below), PCP and SMILE provide an engaged pathway for co-creation of STEM curriculum while also incorporating key practices important for education equity and closing the achievement gap between underrepresented and underserved learners and their peers
SMILE Pathway
The SMILE Pathway as a continuous program spanning from 4th to 12th grade impacts longevity of participation and persistent STEM interest. It involves:
Weekly afterschool club meetings with STEM activities at club hosting schools throughout the school year.
Annual Family Math and Science Nights extended to local communities.
Annual College Connection Events at Oregon State University, and other local/regional college campuses.