Frequently Asked Questions

What is MESA?: The Math, Engineering, and Science Achievement program was founded in 1970 in California and is one of the oldest and most successful academic achievement programs. Today, MESA is present in ten states. MESA's unique mission is to encourage, motivate, support, and prepare students for success in the pursuit of undergraduate degrees and careers in mathematics, engineering, science, and technology. MESA serves all students, but has a particular interest and focus on students from groups that are historically underrepresented in science, engineering, and other math based careers. MESA students in elementary, middle, and high schools prepare for and explore these professions through collaborative projects focused on building math, science, technology, and communication skills.

How does MESA benefit students?: MESA is all about developing tomorrow's leaders! By participating in the Math, Engineering, and Science Achievement program (MESA), students develop a high level of literacy in math and science so they can play a leading role within an increasingly technology-based world. MESA helps students build self-confidence, self-reliance, and leadership skills as well as prepare for any academic career path they may choose.

What is the process for starting a MESA program?: MESA programs may be initiated at a school or other site by requests from parents, principals, or teachers. In any case, the program must be supported both financially and philosophically by the district and building administrators.

How many students participate and which St. Vrain schools are involved?: At this point in the 2005-2006 school year, we will have 30 MESA programs for Pre-kinder (Head Start) through high school students in 24 locations including at Longmont Head Start sites and Casa de la Esperanza. At least 50 MESA advisors will facilitate these programs. We will probably add advisors as the year progresses, provided new programs are truly being funded by the building or other agency. It is too late to add new programs this year since funding from grants and other outside sources have already been established for this school year.

What is the criteria for participation? Is MESA only for minority students?: MESA is open to all students who show a strong interest in math and/or science. Students may self select, or be recommended by teachers or parents. There is no 'quota' for any population.

How do you measure success?: Currently, the number of participants and ethnicity data reflect our measure of success. In six years, participation has increased from 40 students to over 525, last year. 50% were Anglo and 50% were ethnic minorities. The MESA Expo last April also suggests MESA's popularity with students, parents, and the community. Additionally, the fact that over 50 businesses, universities, communities, and other partners supported MESA speaks to the programs growing success.

2003-2004 State level MESA statistics.: We do not have personnel to collect student achievement and other data for St. Vrain MESA. However, according to Colorado MESA data, in 2003, 90% of MESA seniors were admitted to colleges across the U.S. and over 60% of MESA seniors who were admitted to college enrolled in science and engineering programs.

Are parents involved?: Parent involvement is key to the success of MESA. All programs are required to have at least two MESA parent meetings per year. Parents serve as volunteers in a variety of capacities including as MESA advisors. In fact, MESA will be implemented in Head Start due to a parent's request.

How do collaborative Partnerships support MESA?: MESA depends on our collaborative partners. During the 2004-2005 school year, over 50 education outreach programs, corporate, community, and university collaborative partnerships supported St. Vrain by providing financial assistance, professional development for MESA advisors; parent education; materials/supplies/equipment; curriculum and programming; advocacy/advice/inspiration; speakers/facilitatiors/field experiences. For a detailed list of programs, see the "Partnerships" in the "About Us" section of the St. Vrain MESA web site.

What is the role of the St. Vrain MESA Advisory Board?: The St. Vrain MESA Advisory Board Members include parents, MESA advisors, community members, and district administrators. Their mission is to align, focus, and maximize the impact of MESA by developing a core of leaders dedicated to the betterment of young lives and the development of tomorrow's leaders for the benefit of society through mathematical, scientific, and technological education.