The Glendale CDBG Advisory Committee held a special meeting on February 28, 2025, where discussions centered on the critical need for continued funding for the ASA STEM Academy, a program aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for local youth.

During the meeting, representatives from the Armenian Engineers and Scientists of America (ASA) highlighted the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in preparing students for future careers. They pointed out that many low to moderate-income students in Glendale face barriers to accessing high-quality educational programs due to financial constraints. The ASA STEM Academy aims to bridge this gap by providing hands-on engineering education that includes coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence.

The academy utilizes a globally recognized curriculum that has been successfully implemented in over 700 labs across seven countries. This approach not only equips students with essential skills but also fosters a passion for technology and innovation among the youth in Glendale.

In addition to the ASA STEM Academy discussion, the meeting included various other topics, though none were as impactful as the emphasis on educational funding. The committee members expressed their commitment to supporting initiatives that directly benefit the community, particularly those that enhance educational access and equity.

As Glendale continues to navigate the challenges of providing quality education for all its residents, the outcomes of this meeting underscore the importance of investing in programs that empower the next generation. The committee's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of education in the city, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to thrive in an increasingly technological world.