Citizen Schools is a national nonprofit that partners with middle schools to expand the learning day and increase opportunities for low-income children. Not only do we offer our students academic support, but also 10-week apprenticeships—hands on learning projects taught by volunteers from the community on a wide range of subjects. From architecture to robotics, Flip Cam storytelling to business start-ups, we're bringing citizens off the side-lines and into education to make a real difference in the lives of students. Each apprenticeship culminates in a WOW! celebration, a showcase of student achievement where the apprentices teach back to the community what they have learned and experienced.

This year in Durham, our focus was on STEM. Watch the magic unfold as Neal Middle School students bring science, technology, engineering and math to life. They will truly make you say, "WOW!" as they teach back what they've learned in their STEM apprenticeships this fall. Come enjoy an hour of presentations by our STEM apprentices followed by refreshments and an open Q & A session.

Our apprenticeships that will be featured at the WOW! are as follows:

Robotics: Two groups of volunteers from EMC and Fidelity worked with apprentices on basic robot design and computer programming. Students worked in teams to create and program a robot while developing skills in teamwork and learning about careers in engineering.

New Media Revolution: Video production enthusiasts, Matt and Sam, introduced their students to the new media revolution. The apprentices learned filming techniques behind and in front of the camera and created their very own movie clip!

InflYOUence: Cisco volunteer, Robert Lake, taught apprentices vital skills in conflict resolution prepping them for success in high school, college and their future careers. Come see them perform different scenarios of conflict and how they resolve with them in a positive, professional manner.

Urban Gardening: Garden expert, Kacie Martin, turned her apprentices into successful green thumbs. They learned techniques in planting, harvesting and how to maintain their school's garden for seasons to come.