ABOUT US

Self is S.T.E.A.M. was established in 2013, inspired by the scholastic experiences of Ms. Cherre Jefferson. Throughout grade school, Cherre took advantage of various after-school and summer programs that offered learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math - S.T.E.A.M. In this stimulating environment, she thrived and quickly became tutors for her classmates. She found great joy and fulfillment while helping them excel in school.

 

As Cherre matriculated through college, she brought her love for S.T.E.A.M. into her career as an educator in Baltimore City Schools. In the classroom as a high school math teacher, she witnessed the support for academic resources slowly disappear. While city and school budgets were being cut, Cherre had an epiphany. She began to dream of a safe space where children could complete homework assignments, obtain high-quality tutoring, participate in S.T.E.A.M. workshops, receive academic/personal/financial counseling, and just kick back and unwind. She wanted her students to know that they were valued and that they can find esteem in education.

 

From a dream to a plan, Cherre took what she envisioned in her heart and made it a reality. Self is S.T.E.A.M. is an empowering educational program designed to “Build Confidence Through Mentorship and Academic Enrichment.” Our mission is to increase the awareness and interests of careers in S.T.E.A.M. so that these fields can thrive in Black and Brown communities.