What is a Teen Science Café?
Teen Science Cafés (TSCs) are free out-of-school time programs where teen leaders, adult leaders, and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) experts collaborate on presentations and hands-on activities which explore science topics in-depth. Cafés are hosted by various organizations, from libraries to afterschool sites to museums. TSCs are led by teens for a teen audience (grades 9-12) and are as unique as the communities they serve. Cafés are easy to start and no prior experience with STEM is needed. TSCs are a National Science Foundation funded and professional evaluation backed program based on research proven principles elevating teen voice, teen choice, and 21st century skill development.
What is the TSC Fellows program?
The TSC Fellows initiative is a ten-month training program supported by a stipend ($2,500) for the establishment of new Café programs across the nation. It runs from September 2025 through June 2026. Fellows receive one-on-one support from TSC Network Guides to launch a program at their site and host three Café events during the program period, in addition to virtual cohort meetings and more. Applicants should consider how their program will be sustained after the fellowship period.
Application Timeline -Application period runs May 21st -August 8th
-TSCN team interview applicants through August 25th (case-by-case basis) -Recipients notified by Aug 26th
-Signed agreement due back by September 2nd