The MESA Vision
To support the national science and mathematics educational agenda by
ensuring that MESA students develop a high level of literacy in mathematics and
science so they can play a leading role within an increasingly technology-based
world.
Utah's MESA program began twenty years ago, as a partnership between the
University of Utah and the Granite School District. At that time, there was a
group of 52 students in the start-up program. Since then, MESA has grown to
include 17 school districts and charter schools.
Program Objectives
- To increase the number of underserved ethnic minority and female students
who pursue coursework, advanced study and possible careers in mathematics,
engineering, and science areas. - To provide a program and activities designed to motivate underserved ethnic
minority and female students to take better advantage of all existing
educational opportunities. - To facilitate an increase in high school graduation rates of MESA-involved
students. - To strengthen the confidence of underserved ethnic minority and female
students relating to their success in the mathematics and science courses, and
to provide them with skills and opportunities to become successful role models
for other students. - To provide underserved ethnic minority and female students the opportunity
to relate and associate with successful role models. - To coordinate the efforts of public schools, college and universities, the
Utah State Office of Education, industries, professional and community groups
and others in the development and maintenance of academic support programs to
increase the participation of underserved ethnic minority and female students
in academic and career pursuits of mathematics and science. - To provide more information about MESA opportunities and participation
criteria to parents of minority students and to actively involve minority
students’ parents in school activities and programs.