We focus on developing lessons, curriculum and techniques that bring together STEM disciplines, concepts, and learning standards through creative hands-on projects, demonstrations and experiments. We have found that the concept of 'engineering as the application of science and technology' is a powerful lens for young people through which to view -- and truly appreciate -- the rules of the natural world.

In conjunction with our National Science Foundation (NSF) supported GK-12 Fellows Program, we now work intensively with 27 Brooklyn public schools, about 40 teachers and over 1,500 K-12 students. In this project, graduate students from diverse STEM disciplines are paired with K-12 teachers to develop and teach STEM lessons, based on the research and applied science they practice; these students are scientists and engineers "in residence" at schools. By June of this year, we will have launched three new STEM education programs in 12 months. Demand is very high among schools, teachers, after-school programs.

Our K12 STEM education program is:

• Hands-on
• Activity based
• Promotes teamwork
• Involves mentors and
• Allows young people to engage with STEM through building, programming and research