Vermont Afterschool is also creating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) opportunities and career awareness for youth through STEM Pathways. This program trains high school students in rural areas to deliver STEM content to their local afterschool and summer learning programs. It supports older youth in the work-based learning process by helping them to develop job skills, improve their instructional practices, and connect them to different career paths. STEM Pathways provides jobs for high school students who will receive compensation for their time and are located in areas of the state where finding part-time work can be challenging for youth. It also increases access to STEM programs during the out-of-school time for elementary school-age children.
The Youth Workforce Development Guide is an invaluable resource for afterschool professionals and high-schoolers to help with the process of employing high school youth.
Vermont Afterschool is also beginning to explore other content areas for which Pathways could be adapted as a career awareness and employability opportunity for high school youth. More to come on these opportunities.