Dreams For Schools

Dreams for Schools is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to make STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education accessible, inclusive, and engaging for all students, particularly those from underserved communities. We cultivate creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving in K–8 youth through hands-on programs in coding, robotics, engineering, and technology. By training and employing high school students and young adults as instructors and mentors, we build pathways that empower the next generation of innovators and educators.

Dreams for Schools (DFS) was founded in 2016, with the vision to make science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) education approachable and accessible for all. Dreams for Schools advances education equity by bridging gaps in STEAM education, with an emphasis on computer science (CS), by working with a range of community stakeholders from K-12 students, educators, schools, districts, as well as higher education students to provide educational programs that would not otherwise be available to our clients. DFS's primary programs include: (1) STEAM Curriculum Development; (2) K-8 STEAM Classes; (3) Vocational Opportunities for STEAM Higher Ed Students; (4) Professional Development for Educators; (5) Scholarships for K-8 students in DFS Classes and STEAM Higher Ed Students working as DFS instructors; and (6) Community Outreach and STEAM Events.

Since our founding in 2016, Dreams for Schools has grown from a single after-school coding program to serving more than 12,000 youth annually across schools, libraries, and community centers. We’ve created over 900 paid jobs for high school and college students, providing early workforce experience and mentorship opportunities. Our programs spark curiosity and confidence in young learners - over 85% of students report increased interest in STEAM careers, and 90% of our instructors say their teaching experience helped shape their career goals. Through equitable access to technology education, we’re preparing youth to be creators, not just consumers, of innovation.

Despite living in one of the most technologically advanced regions, thousands of children across Southern California still lack access to quality STEAM education. Many schools in underserved areas cannot offer coding, robotics, or engineering programs due to limited funding or staff expertise. Dreams for Schools fills this gap by bringing high-quality, culturally relevant programs directly to these communities at no or low cost. With increasing school budget cuts and rising demand for digital skills, continued support is essential to ensure every child - regardless of zip code - has the opportunity to explore, create, and thrive in our digital world.

Orange County, CA; Los Angeles County, CA; Riverside County, CA; San Bernardino County, CA; Maricopa County, AZ; Affton, MO; Virtual Programs offered nationally across the US.

At Dreams for Schools, we believe that opportunity should not depend on circumstance. What began as a passion project during my time at UC Irvine has grown into a movement to make STEAM education accessible and inspiring for all youth. Every day, I see students light up as they build their first robot or code their first game - and that spark of curiosity can change the course of their future.

As we navigate a time of transition for schools and nonprofits, I remain deeply committed to building partnerships that sustain and expand access to these life-changing experiences. Together, we can create a future where every young mind has the tools and confidence to dream, build, and lead.

- Nithin Jilla, Founder & Executive Director