Girls in increasing numbers have been opting out of
the worlds of math, science, and technology as
courses in school and as careers.
The GEMS club has been working since 1994 to
reverse this trend and to expose 5th and 6th grade
girls to the fun and wonder of these fields.
Explore these pages and find out about the GEMS
club, its purpose, history, activities, research, and
resources for encouraging girls and
maybe starting a club of your own!
The GEMS (Girls Excelling in Math and Science) club was started in 1995 by Laura Reasoner Jones, a teacher and parent of two school-age daughters.Upon hearing her daughter say she didn’t want to go to a
magnet school because “Math is hard.” Ms. Jones enlisted the help and support of her local elementary school and started an after school club for fifth and sixth grade girls. Since that time, over 20 similar clubs have begun around the country.
The GEMS Club makes the Washington Post! See page 19--commentary on women and entrepeneurs.
We have a new experiment going on--a blog! Check it out to see our latest thoughts and experiences.
You will find resources for starting your own club, research on the impact of clubs like GEMS, gender equity research, tips for teachers and parents, activities to encourage girls in math and science, and fun links for girls to explore.
Summer Resource Sheet --download and print for your girls' use this summer
We will be attending the USA Science and Engineering Festival on the National Mall in October 2010. Look for us there!
Copyright 2010 The GEMS Club: Girls Excelling in Math and Science. All rights reserved.