The ode is that it takes a village to raise a child is ever more true in the business of youth development. A part of building the village is seeking sustainable partnerships, and a partnership that we want to highlight is: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, who has been a proud Adopt an Oakland School partner for (x years). At the Oakland Public Education Fund, relationships like the one we share with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, represent what is possible when world-class institutions invest directly in the success and potential of local students.

Through this partnership, Berkeley Lab scientists, engineers, and staff have stepped beyond the walls of the laboratory and into Oakland classrooms, bringing STEM learning to life in meaningful and inspiring ways. Their support has been instrumental in helping us expand opportunities for middle and high school students to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

One of the many ways they have made an impact is through their participation in Computer Science Education Week, where volunteers engage directly with students to spark curiosity and introduce them to the possibilities within computer science and technology careers. These interactions give students a chance to meet professionals working at the forefront of scientific discovery — sometimes for the very first time.

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has also played an important role in supporting our TechLink program, which connects students directly with professionals who help demystify STEM pathways and share their real-world experiences working in technical fields, and parallel obstacles experienced along their path. These conversations provide students with valuable insight into what it takes to pursue careers in science and technology while helping them see themselves reflected in those futures.

Most recently, they brought their enthusiasm and expertise to the Reverse Science Fair at Claremont Middle School; an innovative experience that flips the traditional science fair model. Instead of students presenting projects, STEM professionals set up interactive stations showcasing their work, allowing students to ask questions, explore new ideas, and engage directly with scientists and engineers. The result was an exciting, hands-on experience that opens students’ eyes to the many possibilities within the STEM world.

Partnerships like this are powerful because they connect Oakland students with people and experiences that expand their vision of what is possible. With the continued support of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, students are not only learning about STEM; they are building the confidence, knowledge, and inspiration needed to pursue it.

We are deeply grateful for Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory’s ongoing commitment to Oakland students and look forward to continuing this partnership as we work together to build stronger pathways into STEM for the next generation.

We are especially grateful to Faith Dukes, Corbin Shatto, and the entire team for their continued partnership and investment in our students and schools; their leadership and commitment to showing up for our community have made a meaningful difference for the young people we serve.