The principal constituency of CABPES is African-American
and other under-represented youth in the Denver metropolitan
area. However, no student who is interested in the program is
turned away. They are primarily middle school, junior high,
and high school students, who have a possible interest in engineering
and science. CABPES programs are designed to stimulate interest
and encourage minority youth to pursue careers in engineering
and science and to develop solid math and aptitude test-taking
skills essential for success in these careers.
More than 100 students participate in CABPES
programs throughout the year. These students come to the program
mostly from Denver, Aurora and Cherry Creek school districts
and various private schools. A $30 fee is charged for the JETS
program and the SAT Preparation Program to encourage the participation
of students and the support of the parents. The Math Enrichment
Program fee is $50 per semester. That fee can be reduced or
waived if the family cannot afford it.
CABPES targets middle school, junior high, and
high school students for its programs. Students are often referred
to the program from school teachers and counselors. The CABPES
professionals share in extensive outreach efforts to inform
students, teachers and families about the program. They meet
with teachers and counselors, visit churches and partner with
university programs that focus on younger students. However,
the majority of families come to CABPES through the recommendation
of other families who have successful participated in the program.
At
some point, there is a disconnect between alleged
opportunities in school and the reality of career
choices. If African American youth are not getting
an opportunity to explore these professions at their
schools, there needs to be another resource for them
to explore engineering and the sciences for career
opportunities.