SiS responds to a need for educational opportunities throughout San Diego, while also bringing about a system-wide programming model. It addresses the ongoing need to provide equitable access to STEAM curriculum to elementary and middle school students at a critical juncture in their academic careers. Recognizing that some areas in San Diego have more access to STEAM education than others, our challenge is to help level the playing field and provide opportunities that are easily accessible and free for all youth.

SiS: Dive In! offered 98 programs throughout the months of March through May. These programs served over 1,600 students from all San Diego communities. SiS has initiated over a dozen mutually beneficial partnerships within its three years of existence including with ThoughtSTEM, Microsoft, AERO Ed, Canadian Consulate, San Diego Coast Keeper and Maritime Alliance. Examples of programming from Dive In! include Hurricane Vs. Houses, Create-a-Creature: Animal Adaptations, Underwater Coding and DIY at-home sustainable projects.

SiS has met its three main goals: to develop an equitable approach to library services and provide opportunities for the public to explore technology, to create an atmosphere for participation and explore alternate service models and to cultivate strategic partnerships. Survey results show an average of 86% of students responded that they felt more knowledgeable about the content because of the program, 84% will use what they learned as a result of the program and 90% are more aware of library services and resources.