MEET THE HEROES
Core Unit
The Black STEM Heroes curriculum begins with four core innovators whose work naturally connects to the foundational scientific practices taught in upper elementary classrooms. Each scientist represents a key way scientists and engineers think about solving problems.
Charles Henry Turner — observation and evidence
Madam C. J. Walker — testing, iteration, and product improvement
Patricia Bath — tools, technology, and human-centered problem solving
Garrett Morgan — engineering design for public safety
Together, these pioneers introduce students to essential STEM habits of mind including observing patterns, testing ideas, designing solutions, and explaining results using evidence. Their stories create a consistent foundation students return to throughout the curriculum.
Extension Units
After exploring the core heroes, students expand their understanding of STEM through additional innovators working across engineering, technology, medicine, and environmental science.
Engineering & Innovation
Lonnie Johnson — mechanical engineering and invention
Bessie Coleman — flight physics and aeronautics
Students explore engineering systems, prototyping, and the science of flight.
Technology & Artificial Intelligence
James West — sound engineering and acoustics
Ayanna Howard — robotics and artificial intelligence
This unit introduces students to modern technology systems and emerging innovations in robotics and AI.
Medicine & Public Health
Daniel Hale Williams — surgical innovation and heart surgery
Dr.Kizzmekia Corbett — vaccines, immunology, and public health
Students learn how medical science protects human health and advances life-saving treatments.
Nature & Systems
George Washington Carver — soil science and sustainable agriculture
Benjamin Banneker — astronomy, measurement, and natural patterns. This unit focuses on environmental systems and the scientific observation of the natural world.
STEM Friends & Collaborators
Scientific progress rarely happens alone. This unit highlights innovators from other backgrounds who worked in related fields and helped advance discovery.
Ellen Ochoa — astronaut and engineer who developed optical systems used in space research
Domingo Liotta — biomedical engineer who helped create early artificial heart devices
These stories show students that innovation grows through collaboration across cultures, disciplines, and generations.