k2i academy

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91% Grade 11U Physics course median

92% Grade 12C Physics course median

93% Grade 12U English course median

100% Obtained credit

k2i’s ‘Bringing STEM to Life: Work-Integrated Learning’ stream, launched in the summer of 2021 with Ontario ministry funding, empowers high school students in grades 11 and 12 who are underrepresented in STEM. The program provides a one-month paid summer research experience aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) while earning a high school STEM pathways credit. Collaboratively developed with the Toronto District School Board, York Region District School Board, and Peel District School Board, the initiative focuses on creating opportunities for Black and Indigenous youth, individuals from communities facing systemic barriers and girls. During the inaugural session, 30 high school girls participated in a four-week journey, engaging in paid research opportunities and impactful work within the realm of STEAM.

The program’s outcomes have been significant. Supported by provincial funding, the Bringing STEM to Life: Work-Integrated Learning programs has provided learning opportunities to 525+ high school students. Notably, participants who have opted out of STEM pathways earned high school STEM pathway credits, achieving course medians exceeding 90%. The initiative also provided employment for 175 undergraduate STEM students as mentors to create a diverse community that intentionally supports high school students.

The proven formula of the program, designed, tested, and refined, encompasses various elements to support high school students, including: paid work experience to eliminate financial barriers; opportunities to earn secondary credits (especially in physics and grade 12 English) during the summer for those who have opted out of STEM pathways; tutoring in physics, math and science for academic support; skills development in engineering design, computational thinking, coding, electronics, 3D design and modelling, creativity, and innovation; and opportunities to connect and expand professional STEM networks through undergraduate students, Lassonde research faculty, graduate students, and industry professionals.

Along with our partners, we’ve cultivated an ecosystem that uplifts youth who are underrepresented in STEM, breaking down systemic barriers to entry in these pathways. This success is just the beginning, as the initiative continues to expand, serving as a catalyst for economic growth and societal advancement, propelling Ontario and Canada toward a more equitable, prosperous, and globally competitive future.

The Ministry of Education’s partnership with k2i academy has become one of the most consequential relationships that the Ministry has. This program is the face of change in STEM—breaking down barriers and opening doors that were previously closed for so many deserving but often overlooked young people. This is what change looks like.

Education Equity Secretariat, Ontario Ministry of Education