San Ramon Teen Founds 'Science Literacy Foundation'

SAN RAMON, CA — A Dougherty Valley High School junior is hosting a series of free online science courses designed to help middle school students love and understand science.

“I was exposed to higher-level science classes from Berkeley in my elementary years, and I really wanted to help other people gain that same passion,” Adrian Gore, 16, said about why he founded the Science Literacy Foundation.

After starting a 3D printing club, Gore launched his first set of online courses to provide free instruction in more advanced science topics in 2021. Now, his foundation is enrolling for its spring session, which begins Feb. 27. The SLF is offering four courses in astronomy, chemistry, human anatomy, and biology taught by 25 volunteers, mostly high school age.

In 2021, the SLF had 160 students. Gore says that he’s hoping to double that for the next session.

All courses are hosted each Sunday online, last for 8-9 weeks and are open to students in grades 4-8. Courses are all free, and any materials are used from readily available household items. Gore said he hopes to soon be able to loan kits for projects for students to complete.

Gore said the courses try to focus on topics he feel aren’t covered in depth in school, like astronomy. There are no prerequisites except an “interest in science and learning.”

Currently, classes are composed of lessons and interactive games.

The SLF is also looking for high school or college students interested in serving as volunteer instructors.

To register or learn how you can get involved, contact thescienceliteracyfoundation@gmail.com.