East Bay Academy for Young Scientists (EBAYS) is an NSF-funded after-school and summer program serving under-represented students in grades four through eight in the cities of Emeryville and west Oakland, California. The EBAYS project engages students in inquiry-based learning activities on topics aligned with state and national earth, physical, life science, and information technology (IT) education standards. In addition, the project features a student research component that provides opportunities for youth to collect, organize, analyze and present information concerning local environmental, health, cultural, and socio-economics issues. The project also provides science teachers who work with these students with professional development in inquiry-based teaching strategies.

The EBAYS program was developed to meet the educational needs of students in low-income, under-served urban communities. An important component of the program is providing students with first-hand, authentic scientific research experiences that address relevant issues, engage their curiosity, and motivate further STEM learning. Rockman's evaluation of the program will use surveys, interviews, and specific assessment instruments to address the impact of the program on students':
1) STEM content knowledge and skills
2) understanding of the process of inquiry and the nature of science
3) attitudes towards STEM and their intentions to engage with STEM in their educational and career choices.