Through the Coding Makerspace at the Carver Library and the Afterschool Coding Programs, Changing Expectations is responding to President Obama's call to action to support Makers and create opportunities for youth to engage in hands-on STEM through making. We plan to create a Pathway to Brighter Futures through STEM and Makerspace Projects and Careers. The main goals of the Coding and Makerspace programs are to engage traditionally underserved students around STEM and computer coding projects and related jobs/careers; increase their understanding of the education, training, and skills needed to attain these jobs/careers; and encourage them to see such a path as a future possibility for themselves.

The Carver Library Makerspace and Afterschool Coding Programs will draw on the positive youth literature, which suggests that programs for positive youth development are successful when they offer traditionally underserved youth the following: (1) a sense of safety and structure; (2) a sense of belonging and membership; (3) a sense of self-worth and social contribution; (4) a sense of independence and control over one’s life; and (5) a sense of closeness in interpersonal relationships.

Volunteer roles are to be a role model for the students and to help them stay on task with their STEM-based, computer coding, hands-on electronics projects. Here are some general guidelines: Work with a group of up to 2-3 students to develop projects, offer specific guidance in areas of expertise, and help organize logistics for projects. Mentors can help the students to explore the "teachable moments" that naturally occur during projects to expose underlying STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) concepts. AND, mentors will be able to engage in their own learning and exploration. Volunteers who are STEM and computer professionals from ethnically diverse backgrounds are especially needed to participate as tech role models for East Austin students. Austin, Travis County, and the Central Texas community needs you, and thank you for your consideration.