During a recent meeting with a director of a PTech (Pathways in Technology Early College High School) institution and founder of Papaya, Sandra Laplante, a profound sentiment was expressed that encapsulated the essence of our collective mission: “We know that it is outside of your control on how your students get to you, but we are here to help you make sure that they depart ready to have the opportunity to choose a successful life (and hopefully a career in STEM).”
With this statement the creator of Papaya reaffirms her commitment to education in which she recognizes the challenges that many students face on their journey to access a quality education and also acknowledges that these obstacles are often beyond their control. However, it also underscores the powerful role of tutors who, through Papaya, can help transform students’ futures and inspire them to pursue careers in STEM.
Region 10 student in a tutoring session with Papaya Tutor
The following are the key elements to achieve the above:
The Role of PTech Institutions
These centers have emerged to innovate in education, offering a unique approach that combines high school, college and workplace experiences. They provide pathways to careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields for underserved students. In addition, these schools bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce.
The Collaborative Effort
What was mentioned at the meeting indicates the importance of collaboration among education stakeholders. Here, it is recognized that educators alone cannot control all aspects of a student’s path, but together they can have a significant impact. It reflects a shared commitment to equip students with the skills, knowledge and opportunities they need for successful lives and careers, especially in STEM fields.
The Power of Preparation
Preparation is significant in this educational mission. It involves giving students the tools they need to meet the challenges of the world. It means instilling them with critical thinking skills, resilience and a growth mindset, in addition to academic teachings. This preparation extends beyond the classroom to include mentoring, career guidance and exposure to real-world experiences.
Choosing a Successful Life
We must instill in students to choose a life of success. Importantly, we are not just talking about academic success, but also about personal growth, professional fulfillment and the ability to contribute meaningfully to society. By providing them with the resources and support they need, we enable them to make good choices that align with their passions and aspirations.
A Bright Future in STEM
Even when success is measured on a personal level, a career in STEM is one of the many promising avenues available to today’s students. STEM fields offer opportunities for innovation, discovery and the chance to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Through collaboration and engagement, we can ensure that all students have a fair opportunity to pursue a rewarding STEM career.
Finally, to emphasize what Sandra mentioned at the meeting, that statement serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility we have in education. It underscores the importance of collaboration, preparation and training to guide students to success. Together, we can help students emerge from their educational journey prepared to take advantage of the opportunities that await them and, in so doing, pave the way to a better future for all.