OUR PROGRAMS
OUR PROGRAMS

In 2022, BSF enhanced K-12 educational experiences with programs, activities, and financial support. We reached students in independent, public, and public charter schools through in-person and virtual programs.

Students were placed in learning programs during school terms and summer breaks to lessen the financial burden on families. BSF engaged with high school students through DC's youth employment programs and consistently collaborated with non-profits and businesses to foster STEM education and youth development.

Over 5000 Students

Received from students, parents, and guardians.

90 DMV Shools

Schools Reached in the DMV Region

> $10,000

High school students earned employment programs

Group of students signing up for volunteer opportunities, reflecting community involvement and teamwork.

BSF STEM

Sustainable Solutions Summit

BSF Scholarship Club

BSF Test Prep

Unleashing STEM Potential

Application Opens December 1, 2023
STEM Themes

BSF's Math an' Coding program is a transformative initiative born from the success of our Videogame Institute (VGI). Our goal is to address the underrepresentation of persons of color in STEM fields by providing comprehensive education and exposure.

Illustration of a human brain, representing cognitive functions and mental processes.

Performance Matters

Why Math Matters

Mathematics is the cornerstone of STEM, reaching far beyond traditional equations. It's a vital tool utilized in various domains, including:

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Chemistry, Biology, Medical Research, and Artificial Intelligence.

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Engineering, Accounting, and Finance

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Social Sciences: Social Work, Education, and International Studies

Are you ready to be a part of the BSF STEM movement? 🖥️

Together, we can redefine STEM education and unlock the potential of every young mind.

Register

Program Themes

BSF STEM offers three distinct program themes that cater to diverse interests and aspirations:

MathematicsDive into the world of numbers, logic, and problem-solving. Develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts that form the foundation of various STEM disciplines.

Coding and ComputingExplore the art of coding and its applications. From software development to app creation, empower yourself with the skills to shape the digital landscape.

STEM Career AwarenessUncover the exciting array of opportunities within STEM fields. Gain insights into potential career paths, empowering you to make informed decisions about your future.

Headshot of a STEM teacher, representing expertise and dedication in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.
Patriots STEM Career Camp
BSF Conchita Poole Math Circle
Coding
MATHCOUNTS

Classes run during July and early August

This summer, Patriots Technology Training Center (Patriots), working with BSF, will offer fifty students outstanding summer programming that will expose Prince George’s middle schoolers to some of the most important STEM fields.

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Math enrichment is a core component of BSF STEM. We offer a diverse range of math learning tools and programs to enhance students' mathematical skills and understanding.

Scene depicting game development, featuring graphics design, coding, and interactive gaming elements.

Math Enrichment Progams

Our unique approach ensures a structured progression for our students:

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Functional Programming We guide our students through the fundamentals of coding, enabling them to master functional programming concepts.

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Advancing to Game DevelopmentAfter establishing a foundation, we guide students into developing video games, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills through hands-on experience.

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Balancing with SELWe prioritize both technical skills and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), promoting complete growth beyond coding.

Machine Learning Introduction

Discover the fascinating world of machine learning through our comprehensive program:

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Introduction to TensorFlow, NumPy, Matplotlib, and SciKitLearn.

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Explore the intersection of mathematics and AI.

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Develop a strong foundation in linear algebra, calculus, and statistics.

Display of machine learning applications being used on an iPad.

The Daniel Alexander Payne Community Development Corporation conducts a Girls Who Code program for middle and high school young women, i.e., who are age 8-14. The Black Student Fund works in collaboration with the CDC. You can get more information by contacting Ms. Cristol Primas (click here).

Scene depicting game development, featuring graphics design, coding, and interactive gaming elements.

The MANC Approach

Our unique approach ensures a structured progression for our students:

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Functional Programming We guide our students through the fundamentals of coding, enabling them to master functional programming concepts.

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Advancing to Game DevelopmentAfter establishing a foundation, we guide students into developing video games, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills through hands-on experience.

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Balancing with SELWe prioritize both technical skills and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), promoting complete growth beyond coding.

Preparing for a Digital World

Our mission is not just about coding syntax. We aim to equip students with knowledge of software's capabilities and limitations and provide a moral compass to navigate the world of technology. Our focus is on:

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Moral BoundariesRecognizing what should not be designed or created, considering the implications of technology on humanity.

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Ethical DesignUnderstanding what furthers mankind and contributes positively to society.

Python logoDisplay of machine learning applications being used on an iPad.

Where excellence in mathematics meets spirited competition. At the Conchita Poole Math Circle, we take pride in nurturing young mathematical minds and preparing them for exciting challenges. Let's dive into the highlights of our MathCounts journey in 2025.

The 2023 MathCounts National Student Video Competition

This year, we took the MathCounts National Student Video Competition by storm. Our dynamic team consisted of two middle school competition teams, each comprising four exceptional students. The teams, named
"Math Masters" and "Smarties," embraced the spirit of competition and camaraderie.

Join Us
Join

With veterans from last year's successful "Saints" team, they were ready to tackle any challenge that came their way.

1

Amy

2

Miles

3

Ethan

4

Laury

Team 1
Math Masters

These bright minds showcased their passion for problem-solving and mathematics.

1

Miles

2

Ciara

3

Jackson

4

Gabriel

Team 2
Smarties
This year, both teams handled algebra problems and presented their entries: A Baller Question and A Batch of Problems to Solve. Video entries are below.

The 2023 MathCounts National Student Video Competition

Team 1 Math competition screenshot.
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Team 1

Team 2 Math competition screenshot.
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Team 2

Envisioning a Greener 🌱Tomorrow.

The Sustainable Solutions Summit challenges high school students from the Greater Washington area to develop sustainable business solutions for a brighter future. The event concludes with a pitch presentation to environmental and business leaders.
The 2025 Summit's dates are June 23 through June 27 daily at 9 AM through 4 PM, at the Courtyard by Marriott Bethesda/Chevy Chase (5520 Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD).

Interested? Register here.
Buy now
Sustainable Solutions Summit Logo
Pic of Attendees of 2023 Sustainable Solutions Summit. Program with Forbright Bank, a BSF partner.

Contributor

The BSF Scholarship Club is an information service that includes workshops, advising, and scholarship sources. BSF posts  scholarships daily on our Facebook site. Club  members can access  BSF scholarships list.

If you wish to join the Scholarship Club, please contact us by email.

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PSAT

Standardized testing is a controversial but de rigueur component of education in the US. We offer PSAT/SAT test preparation services and focus on strengthening vocabulary as well as test preparation for reading, writing, language, and math.

Register
Year
Spring
Summer
Fall
Crunch
2023
Up to 400
Up to 500
Up to 400
Upto 500
Up to 600
Up to 400
Upto 500
Up to 600
Above 600
Subjects: TBD
Dates: TBD
2024
All Math Lexiles
All Math Lexiles
All Math Lexiles
Subjects: TBD
Dates: TBD
Year
SPRING
SUMMER
SUMMER
CRUNCH
2023
Up to 400
Up to 500
Up to 400
Up to 500
Up to 600
Up to 400
Up to 500
Up to 600
Above 600
Subjects: TBD
Dates: TBD
2024
All Math Lexiles
All Math Lexiles
All Math Lexiles
Subjects: TBD
Dates: TBD

Our Parents' Testimonials

Look For info on our iD Tech Programming. Here are BSF Parents' Testimonials

I had a great experience with the ID Tech virtual camps and would highly encourage other students to participate in them. I loved the class’s style in terms of having a lecture as well as the opportunity for hands-on learning and being able to code myself. I hope to be able to continue my learning in both Python and C++ and am very grateful for the opportunity to participate this summer.
Our daughter participated in the iD tech coding class, she had about 4 other students in the class. She was highly engaged. She not only learned to code but also was exposed to Salesforce, we would DEFINITELY participate again.
As a parent we always want to give our children not only the things we didn’t have growing up but also the knowledge we didn’t possess.  Since I am not able to write in programming code, iD Tech has been a tremendous asset to my family.  My daughter has gone from a beginner in programming to an experienced coder.  The one-on-one tutoring lessons have been of great assistance in helping her learn how to code and analyze in an intimate environment.  Each tutor she has worked with has been extremely knowledgeable and patient with her.  I also love the fact that the tutors are young adults.  This allows my daughter to see herself within them.  She is able to see other motivated young people working towards accomplishing goals.  I saw the improvement after her first lesson.  I highly recommend the tutoring sessions. Even just signing up for one hour of tutoring can make a world of difference.
My son attended an iD Tech class about entrepreneurship. He learned how to turn a passion into a business opportunity.
I would first start by saying, that it could not have been more beneficial for children during these most difficult times with the pandemic. It was such an outlet for their mental health freedom. My daughter was able to learn about independence and self motivation on completing her work of creating a Roblox Obby. Given the opportunity again we would most definitely like to participate again. Thanks id Tech.
Our daughter participated in the iD tech coding class, she had about 4 other students in the class. She was highly engaged. She not only learned to code but also was exposed to Salesforce, we would DEFINITELY participate again.

Our team ⛳

These are the people behind the templates that you love and use everyday. Get to know them.

I would first start by saying, that it could not have been more beneficial for children during these most difficult times with the pandemic. It was such an outlet for their mental health freedom. My daughter was able to learn about independence and self motivation on completing her work of creating a Roblox Obby. Given the opportunity again we would most definitely like to participate again. Thanks id Tech.