About Us

STEMteachersNYC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to supporting STEM teachers in NYC and beyond. Since 2011, we’ve grown from a small group of physics teachers to thousands of educators participating in workshops and events led by expert current and retired teachers. Our mission is to promote excellence in STEM teaching through innovative, teacher-led professional development open to all education professionals.

STEMteachersNYC’s Teen Education Leadership Academy (STELA)

STELA is a summer program that prepares high school students for leadership and education roles through hands-on experience in event production, marketing, and nonprofit work alongside STEMteachersNYC’s Summer STEM Institute. The program builds valuable skills for college and careers.

Tuition is $2100, with full scholarships available for those in need.

What to Expect

Expect an immersive experience in STEM education professional learning, nonprofit planning, and leadership development, all within a supportive and dynamic environment.

Key Topics Include:

Nonprofit Planning & Administration: Learn mission statements, organizational structure, budgeting, fundraising, and develop your own nonprofit startup plan.

Educational Evaluation & Research: Conduct internal evaluations, participant observations, interviews, and learn qualitative and quantitative research basics.

Nonprofit Social Media & Marketing: Create marketing content, design infographics, and produce videos summarizing educational workshop impacts.

Designing Your Own Workshop: Plan and facilitate your own workshop to build leadership and public speaking skills.

Most sessions are held in person around NYC, with some virtual meetings. Transportation via public transit is expected; transit fare can be provided upon request. Students must bring their own lunch and refreshments.

What We Expect From You

STELA runs July 7 – 25, 8:30am–3:30pm weekdays. Attendance is required at physical locations or on Zoom calls. Participants must:

Be finishing high school in the 2024-25 year and reside in NYC during program dates.

Work independently and in groups, navigating NYC to meet at various locations.

Have access to a computer with internet (preferably a laptop or portable device).

We seek students passionate about leadership, nonprofit work, program design, marketing, and video production. Prior experience is not required—we’ll help you develop these skills.

Students will be expected to:

Engage actively and respectfully with all program aspects.

Communicate honestly with STEMteachersNYC staff.

Complete deliverables including a nonprofit plan, a video summary, a mini report, and a final presentation.

How to Apply

Important Notes:

Only 2 spots available for Summer 2025. No use of generative AI in application answers; honesty is trusted.

Applicants will fill out a single-page form including personal info, short essay questions (100-word limit each), resume upload, and availability for interviews.

Sample Essay Questions to Prepare:

1) Why do you want to join STELA and what do you hope to gain?

2) What excites you about STEMteachersNYC?

3) Which skills or interests do you want to develop (e.g., leadership, nonprofit work, marketing)?

4) What are your future plans?

5) Anything else you’d like to share?

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Interviews will be scheduled with qualified applicants promptly.

Apply Here

Questions? Email us anytime at info@STEMteachersNYC.org.