At Engineering Transformer we aim to increase:
Student interest, confidence, and motivation to continue learning STEM through hands-on, creative activities, projects, and challenges that utilize various technological tools and focus on real-world applications.
- Pilot schools: 42nd Street Elementary and Alexander Science Center School. Additional schools will be added each year, for a total of 10 participating schools.
- Program piloted as an afterschool STEM Club at each school, with materials and curriculum accessible to teachers during school hours pending in-school coordination.
- Monthly training for teachers on curriculum and technology.
- USC student assistants available as technical support.
- Family STEM Nights to engage families.
- End-of-year student showcase to highlight student projects.
Each unit is stand-alone, encompassing 3-4 introductory activities and projects. At the end of each unit there is an open-ended, creative challenge. At the end of the year, students are challenged to create or recreate a project from the year to highlight at a student showcase.
Meet the ET Team
Lyeah Granderson,
LAUSD Teacher
Lyeah Granderson, M.Ed. is an elementary school educator, entrepreneur, and former behavior intervention specialist for children on the Autism Spectrum. She is passionate about infusing social-emotional learning practices into her lessons and helping students develop a love of learning through exploration, experimentation, and creative expression.
Cherie Lebron,
LAUSD Teacher
Ms. Cherie Lebron has taught for 17 years and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, and a Master of Education degree in Educational Technology. Born and raised in Saginaw, Michigan, Cherie moved to Los Angeles after college to pursue the educational field. Currently an instructional coach at 42nd Elementary School, she also co-teaches a weekly STEM class after school partnered with the USC Viterbi School of Engineering K-12 STEM Center.
Penuelas is a former classroom teacher who uses her experience and background in STEM education to develop cross-curricular and responsive teaching strategies. "I encourage students to learn through their own cultural and experiential filters. I want students to know that no matter where you come from, you can do and be anything you want."
Evangelos Neophytou,
USC Biomedical Engineering'26.
Evangelos is studying biomedical engineering, his goal is to better the world. “Having Viterbi School of Engineering as a platform to achieve my goals through volunteering in the Engineering Transformer program is an honor.” He recently moved to California from the island of Cyprus, he enjoys the beach, hiking, and going on road trips.
Mr. Ramirez is a fifth-grade, dual language teacher at Alexander Science Center. He’s been a teacher for 14 years and six of them stem-related as a teacher and magnet coordinator. He enjoys taking advantage of the many cultural events that the Los Angeles area offers.
Syd is a civil engineering major passionate about climate-resilient systems and sustainability. “I love helping to spark young students' curiosity and excitement about STEM and seeing the success that follows. I enjoy running, playing soccer, and hiking in my free time.”
How do I learn more?
Reach out to Engineering Transformer Program Manager, Eva Penuelas at penuelas@usc.edu.
As we grow, we are often looking to connect with local school/district partners
A USC Viterbi K-12 STEM Center program
supported by The John Branca Family.
Published on August 15th, 2022
Last updated on April 28th, 2023