When a student’s confidence, preparation and skills come together, it sparks a powerful transformation. Toyota is committed to ensuring that students are aware of the numerous post-graduate STEM opportunities available to them.
The Driving Possibilities initiative empowers students and provides access to educational programs that are inclusive, future-focused, and responsive to workforce demands. This initiative is funded by the Toyota USA Foundation, Toyota Motor North America (TMNA), and Toyota Financial Services (TFS).
“We need to help prepare the workforce of the future by providing a broader education and getting the next generation ready for high-growth careers,” says Ted Ogawa, CEO at Toyota Motor North America. “In addition, addressing inequities that create barriers to success will help improve lives throughout the U.S.”
For Toyota, this approach focuses on supporting local groups to contribute to student success in a holistic manner.
The program is being implemented in the company’s operational communities nationwide, focusing on addressing food insecurity, literacy, mobility solutions, career readiness, and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education.
Driving Possibilities is based on the program at the West Dallas STEM School (WDSS), and aims to close educational gaps for all students through innovative, hands-on STEM programming.
Accelerating Career Readiness
In Southeast Michigan, a similar program will propel students toward a future STEM career.
The program in this region focuses on improving access and coordination of STEM resources to underserved students. This includes a newly-created STEM Institute, professional learning for teachers, and a multi-year transportation study.
The program’s funding is being administered between Eastern Michigan University (EMU) and the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA).
“We are proud to partner with Toyota USA Foundation’s Driving Possibilities initiative as it puts community expertise and voice at the center of community engagement,” says Ryan Evely Gildersleeve, Ph.D., EMU’s College of Education Dean.
Continuing a Path for Success
In Kentucky, the program aims to better connect school systems with industry partners and resources to increase access to key programs.
Collaborating with Scott County, Fayette County, and the Ignite Institute in Northern Kentucky, the program expands literacy and language resources, builds education and industry partnerships, and addresses transportation barriers.
In addition, partnerships with community partners and businesses will focus on STEM/STEM Career Technical Education (CTE) curriculum, field trips, job shadowing, apprenticeships, and mentorships. Programs will also provide resources for English-learner students and families.
“Over the last 32 years, Toyota has partnered with National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) to spread high-impact practices to support families learning together,” says Shea Coughlin, SVP, Operations & Strategy, NCFL. “Toyota USA Foundation’s Driving Possibilities initiative has challenged us to take another step forward in engaging with families and communities.”
Dia Davidson-Smith, the chief communications and public engagement officer for Fayette County Public Schools, is hopeful that the program will empower students to pursue rewarding STEM careers and prepare them for success in the classroom and in life.
Creating Limitless Possibilities
In Southern Indiana, the program focuses on increasing access to quality PreK education and providing additional support to student mental health services, multi-language learning, and hands-on STEM programs for students and teachers.
This program aims to prepare area students for future STEM careers by introducing powerful learning experiences.
Connecting STEM and Career Technology Education
In Alabama, the program aims to bridge students to STEM-based Career Technology Education programs and support new teachers in educating students across grade levels.
This grant supports the recently announced HCS Career Tech Center in Huntsville City Schools by providing funds to the Huntsville Chamber Foundation as its coordinating partner.
“High-quality education is essential for a well-educated and capable workforce,” says Elizabeth Goodson, induction program specialist & director of public development, Huntsville City Schools. “Supporting teacher induction programs not only benefits students but also contributes to the overall health and vitality of the community.”
Through the New Teacher Center, up to 70 new teachers at both Jemison High School and Lee High School will receive training and mentorship.
Building a Solid STEM Future
As the Driving Possibilities initiative is rolled out across the U.S., collaborating with school districts, nonprofits, and local communities to improve educational programs for future STEM professionals remains a top priority for Toyota.
“Through our active partnerships with communities across the U.S., we collaborate to improve education and help shape the future for the next generation,” says Mark Templin, CEO, Toyota Financial Services. “We invite other businesses to join with us in this shared purpose.”
Check out the map below to see how Toyota USA Foundation is driving this initiative forward: