Sylvan Learning, Inc., the leading North American provider of personal learning for students, is launching EDGE, a series of highly engaging, hands-on classes that empower parents to incorporate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) content into their children's after-school activities. With an alarming number of parents reporting that their children lack the necessary skills in advanced math (69%) and computer science (coding and programming) (80%), there is a critical need to increase access to STEM-related programs in order to prepare today's children for the future job market.

Today, American children lag behind their global peers in STEM proficiency. Reflecting this gap, a recent survey conducted by Kelton Global in partnership with Sylvan Learning revealed that 94 percent of parents feel that it's crucial to train today's children for a different future in the global job market and more than a third (34%) believe that most children don't have proper technology instruction in the classroom to develop these skills. 

"The fastest growing areas of our economy are the STEM-related sectors," said Jeffrey Cohen, president and CEO of Sylvan Learning. "We have to provide more opportunities for our students, especially girls, to explore STEM subjects at an early age. We want to engage every elementary student, ignite their passion for discovery and put them on a path for fulfilling and successful careers. Waiting until high school is too late."

Known for his leadership role in the science and innovation arena, Bill Nye will join Sylvan on April 21 in New York City to unveil the company's new EDGE offering, including a series of innovative classes in Robotics, Coding, Engineering and Accelerated Math. These classes are designed to help students master critical STEM skills outside of the classroom in a fun and creative atmosphere. 

"I am very excited to be working with Sylvan to raise awareness of the importance of Science Technology Engineering & Math for our students, especially for kids in elementary school," Bill Nye said. "Getting kids in programs like EDGE gives them a solid start, building the confidence and skills they need to be successful as our society's technology advances and changes."

To coincide with the event in New York, more than 500 Sylvan Centers will be launching "Find Your Edge" events in local communities throughout the U.S. and Canada to introduce families to STEM activities that engage kids. In addition, centers will be encouraging parents, scout leaders, coaches and educators to help children "Find Their Edge" by offering more than 6,000 free hands-on experiences like robotics and coding to reach more than 60,000 kids nationwide. Local events and details on how to sign up for a free class can be found on www.SylvanEdgeBash.com

As part of the EDGE initiative, Sylvan has partnered with top Ed-Tech companies including LEGO® Education and Tynker to develop unique and engaging programs for students in grades 1-8. Children will have the opportunity to build and create robots with LEGO®Education WeDo, an easy-to-use LEGO set coupled with graphical programming software that introduces young students to robotics. Children will also develop apps and video games, using Tynker's programming tools and tutorials.  

With its deep experience in education, strong relationships with schools and educators, and robust presence throughout the U.S., Sylvan is committed to improving access to fun and affordable STEM programs throughout the nation. Sylvan EDGE programs have been developed to ensure that STEM classes are not only exciting for children but also heavily enriched with educational content to stimulate the minds of future scientists and engineers.