PL2 is a year-round hybrid science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) program for rising tenth grade students, parents, and teachers. We are aggressively recruiting students and teachers to engage in hands-on Physics investigations, virtual sessions, industry, and laboratory tours to discover the wonders of Photonics (optics, laser technology, electronics, and computer hardware). Upon successful completion of program activities, teachers receive stipends and students receive scholarships for their participation.

The program goals are to:

• prepare underrepresented minority high school students for STEM programs and higher education
• equip teachers and parents with resources to engage learners in these disciplines

During the 2010 year, the program served 27 rising eleventh graders, 27 rising sophomores, 1 freshman, and their parents (41% African-American, 26% Caucasian, 13% Asian, 9% Hispanic/Latino, 7% Multi-Racial, and 4% Other) from the following NC counties: Alamance, Caswell, Chatham, Durham, Hanover, Harnett, Johnston, Lenoir, Nash, Orange, and Wake. Also, the program served 18 middle and high school teachers (78% Caucasian, 17% African-American and 5% Asian-American) from the following counties: Alamance, Brunswick, Carteret, Chatham, Durham, Forsyth, McDowell, Mecklenberg, and Wake.

Register for the teacher workshop and watch the Connect A Million Minds video to learn more about the student opportunity and the purpose of the program.

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