Mission
Salvadori’s mission is to teach science, technology, engineering, arts/architecture, and math (STEAM) to all K-12 students, but primarily those in under-resourced communities, through a collaborative, hands-on, project-based approach that uses the built environment - buildings, bridges, parks, and communities - that shows students how STEAM is relevant to their lives.
Vision
Make STEAM intellectually accessible for all learners
Increase students’ comprehension of grade-level STEAM
Provide students with culturally relevant STEAM learning (leaders & examples)
Help all students see themselves as successful in STEAM
Foster appreciation for, and interest in, STEAM degrees and careers
Our History
In the 1970s, studies show that by third grade, many student already lacked interest in science and mathematics. In response, the New York Academy of Sciences called on its members to improve math and science education.
Renowned architect and engineer Mario Salvadori answered that call by teaching a 7th-grade class in East Harlem. Using NYC’s bridges and buildings as a living classroom, he developed a hands-on, project-based approach that made learning relevant and engaging. His methods quickly gained momentum, and in 1987, the Salvadori Center was officially founded to bring his innovative STEAM education model to classrooms across New York City.
