The MESA Schools Program is a statewide academic preparation program through the University of California Office of the President, which provides academic development for middle and high school students to prepare for baccalaureate degree programs in mathematics and science and careers in engineering and other mathematics-based scientific fields. The primary goal of the UCSC MESA center is to provide support for students from underserved communities through fun, hands-on projects and other college awareness activities to promote STEM college and career pathways.
We seek to create a pipeline from K-12 to university, preparing students for success in STEM fields and giving them access to high paying careers while also meeting business and industry workforce needs. MESA encourages bright minds to stay in math, science, and engineering and dream big and not lose their interest in these fields. The program is an important part of the Educational Partnership Center's ongoing efforts to build college-bound communities.
MESA Day Competition: This annual event at the UCSC Jack Baskin School of Engineering brings hundreds of students to campus to compete against their peers in a variety of STEM events, from balsawood bridges and model bisected hearts to crystal growing and team math quest. Working with MESA Teacher Advisors and industry volunteers, students work throughout the academic year on curricula and hands-on projects that reinforce California State Math and Science Standards and support college preparation.
Academic Enrichment: In MESA school periods and after-school MESA clubs, students learn the most effective techniques for academic success to promote teamwork, student leadership, study and test-taking skills for the SAT/PSAT, critical thinking, and the application of science and mathematics-based concepts and principles.
Teacher Professional Development: MESA Teacher Advisors receive support to expand and improve mathematics and science learning across the entire school in the MESA Academy for Science and Math Education (MASME) and monthly advisor meetings. MESA program staff also offer curriculum support for MESA projects.
Family Involvement: Parents and families are empowered to become effective advocates for their students and support their educational goals through participation in MESA events and field trips, workshops and college family conferences, and summer parent trainings.
Academic Planning & Advising: Students learn how to prepare for college and track their progress through Individual Academic Plans, tutoring in math and science, and college application workshops.
College & Career Exploration: Special guest speakers and field trips to places such as UCSC Long Marine Lab and Seymour Discovery Center, Intel Museum, and regional college campuses show students a wide variety of college and career opportunities.
Academic Advancement Academies: In partnership with schools and districts, the five-week Summer Algebra Academy helps rising 9th grade students prepare for success in Algebra I while building college awareness.
The UCSC MESA Schools Program is funded through the UC Office of the President and is jointly sponsored by the UCSC Jack Baskin School of Engineering and Educational Partnership Center. Click here for more information about the statewide program.
For more information, contact:
MESA Schools Program
(831) 459-1819
