STEM Program

The STEM Program introduces students to science, technology, engineering, and math through coding, web design, game development, and fun hands-on activities. The program is based on inquiry-based learning and favors construction over instruction, with an emphasis on experimentation rather than lecture-style lessons. Students in Kindergarten through 5th grade participate as Junior Scientists and Engineers, and in middle and high school they continue as “Mar Vista Gamers,” focusing on coding, web design, and game development. The program uses a team environment that includes collaboration with others, and the atmosphere is described as “fun,” encouraging students to express themselves and use their creative energies.

• Ages: 5–18 years old

The STEM Program is part of Mar Vista Family Center (MVFC), whose mission is to provide families with quality early childhood education, youth enrichment and multi-generational programming, and tools to create positive change in their lives and communities. MVFC operates on a sustainable and cooperative model in which families remain involved with the Center across generations from early childhood through adulthood. Through its Shared Responsibility Curriculum Model, MVFC has contributed to transforming a community that once experienced urban gang violence and unsafe streets into a thriving, healthy community and has given residents a space in which to learn, grow, and lead.

Last updated July 4, 2026.