Empowering Future Innovators: A Day with The Circuit EPA
By Cayman Bentley, PVF’s Social Media Manager
Last month, I visited The Circuit EPA at Cesar Chavez Ravenswood Middle School in East Palo Alto, California, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth from underserved communities with the skills necessary to pursue careers in technology, esports, gaming, and media. Their mission is to prepare students to thrive and lead in the tech workforce, fostering a new generation of innovators.
During my visit, I was impressed by the vibrant learning environment and the hands-on, innovative STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) programs that are offered. The organization’s Executive Director, Shauna Smith, encapsulated their mission perfectly: “The Circuit EPA believes that access is the spark that ignites opportunity. We are elevating, preparing and accelerating a pathway for middle school students in East Palo Alto and surrounding communities with hands-on, innovative STEAM learning. Our students are big dreamers and big thinkers, and we see that reflected in our lab – a testament to their talent and hard work. Every computer, desk, chair, and installation was done by our students alongside our amazing staff and incredible volunteers.”
The Circuit’s approach to education is both practical and inspiring. They emphasize real-world skills and hands-on projects, allowing students to apply what they learn in tangible ways. This method not only enhances their technical abilities, but also builds confidence and problem-solving skills. I observed newcomer students working on various projects, from learning English via virtual reality programming, coding and robotics to multimedia production. The enthusiasm and dedication they showed were remarkable, and it was evident that they were not just learning but thriving.
What stood out the most was the collaborative spirit and the sense of ownership among the students. Every aspect of the learning space, from the computers to the desks and chairs, was assembled by the students themselves with guidance from staff and volunteers. This approach not only provides practical skills but also instills a strong sense of pride and accomplishment. Seeing the students take such an active role in shaping their learning environment was truly inspiring. It demonstrated the impact of giving young people the tools and opportunities to succeed.
East Palo Alto is indeed a special community and The Circuit EPA is playing a pivotal role in unlocking the potential of its young residents. By providing access to state-of-the-art technology and fostering a culture of innovation and creativity, The Circuit EPA is setting students on a path to become the future leaders and innovators of Silicon Valley and beyond. Their efforts are not just about education; they are about creating opportunities and building a brighter future for the entire community.
My visit to The Circuit EPA left me with a profound appreciation for the work they are doing and the lives they are transforming. The dedication of the staff, the enthusiasm of the students, and the supportive community they have built are truly commendable. It is organizations like The Circuit EPA that are making a real difference, and we are excited to see the continued growth and success of their students in the years to come. PVF is proud to support the work being done at The Circuit EPA and we are excited to see the continued growth and success of their students in the years to come.
