Today we’d like to introduce you to Laquita Bolden.
Hi Laquita, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started My Little Scientist because, through my own life journey, I realized the importance of representation. First, I created an elementary book series based on the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) that teaches social-emotional skills. The book series inspired the My Little Scientist STEM Club. The purpose of this educational program is to engage students through hands-on engineering design projects. Using the engineering design process students create solutions to real-world problems. Seeing other people that looked like me in the Science field gave me the strength to finish my bachelor’s in Biology and the confidence to embrace my natural love for science, and I want to provide the same experience for other black and brown students.
I am a black educator and entrepreneur. Education has been my passion since I was in middle school. I earned my B.S. in Biology and M.Ed. in Curriculum and Applied Teaching from Cleveland State University in 2014 and 2018; I taught at Cleveland Public Schools and Uncommon Charter Schools in New York City.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
A struggle I have experienced in the process of expanding my business. My Little Scientist originated in Cleveland Ohio and in the last five years, I’ve expanded to New York City.
The goal is to expand to Houston, but It’s hard to partner with schools, recreation centers, and educational programs because I’m competing with larger companies with more resources. My Little Scientist STEM Club is a one-of-a-kind program that teaches scientific concepts through the lens and experiences of black and brown students.
We’ve been impressed with My Little Scientist LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The mission of My Little Scientist is to provide culturally responsive products and services that showcase underrepresented groups of children involved in STEM and bridge the equity gap in education. We offer an education program that allows students to use the engineering design process to create solutions to real-world problems.
Also, we offer the first book in our elementary book series that includes a “parent-friendly” lesson plan and experiment. The book series is based on Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and also teaches social-emotional skills.
Pricing:
- “I, Matter” – $12.99
- STEM Club Curriculum – (prices may vary)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mylittlescientistllc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mylittlescientistllc/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mylittlescientistllc
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/laquita-bolden-654a0244
Image Credits
The Merrick House
