STEM RISE × RESET in STEM

Immersive STEM Teaching and Research Experiences Through a Layered Mentorship Model

Program Overview

STEM RISE × RESET in STEM is a collaborative, layered mentorship initiative at the University of Houston designed to connect high school students, undergraduate preservice STEM teachers, and medical students through research, teaching, and community-engaged learning experiences.

The model was developed through partnerships across the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, the College of Education, the Cullen College of Engineering, and the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, in collaboration with community partners including 8 Million Stories and Project Row Houses.

Through research placements, academic enrichment, professional development, and mentorship, the program supports STEM literacy, educator preparation, and workforce development in Houston communities surrounding the University of Houston.

NSF Support

STEM RISE and RESET in STEM were previously supported by grants from the National Science Foundation:

STEM RISE: DUE 2121455
RESET in STEM: DRL 2315124

Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.

2026 Program Update

The STEM RISE × RESET in STEM summer program will pause for Summer 2026 as we engage in strategic planning and program refinement. Our team is working to strengthen and expand the layered mentorship model to ensure long-term sustainability and impact.

We are grateful for the students, faculty, and community partners who have shaped this work and will share updates about future programming as they become available.

STEM RISE × RESET in STEM Participants

High School Scholars

Public high school students in the Third Ward region and surrounding Houston communities engage in research placements, academic enrichment, and college and career readiness programming during the summer and academic year.

Undergraduate Preservice STEM Teachers

Students enrolled in the teachHOUSTON program participate through coursework, research mentorship, and community-based STEM enrichment activities, gaining hands-on experience in research and culturally responsive teaching.

Medical Students

Students from the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine serve as research mentors and engage in professional development focused on mentorship, community engagement, and STEM education.