Reigniting Project Excite: A Powerful Pilot to Close Opportunity Gaps

“Without Foundation 65, there simply would not be a rebirth of Project Excite this past year.”
—Mark Vondracek, ETHS Physics Teacher

After a seven-year hiatus, a beloved and impactful initiative returned to Evanston classrooms this spring—thanks to a grant from Foundation 65. Project Excite, once a model for equity-focused enrichment, has been reimagined as a long-term, relationship-driven program to support students of color beginning as early as third grade.

Led by ETHS physics teacher Dr. Mark Vondracek, the Project Excite pilot launched at Walker and Lincolnwood elementary schools with 30 students who engaged in high-energy, hands-on STEM learning experiences. The pilot included three sessions at each school, designed to "hook" students and families and invite them into a multi-year journey of enrichment and mentorship.

Hands-On STEM Meets Social-Emotional Growth

The sessions weren’t just about magnets, springs, and egg drops. They were about building confidence, collaboration, and a sense of belonging.

“While academics are a key part of Excite,” said Vondracek, “the real foundation is social-emotional learning—self-confidence, enthusiasm, teamwork, and goal-setting. These are the tools that help students break through achievement gaps and see themselves as capable, engaged learners.”

ETHS students also played a major role in the pilot, acting as mentors and peer role models—an essential piece in establishing strong, supportive relationships across schools.

A Long-Term Strategy for Real Equity

What sets Project Excite apart is its focus on the long game: beginning in elementary school and supporting students through middle school and into high school, all with the goal of narrowing the racial achievement and opportunity gaps that persist in Evanston schools.

Community Support & Institutional Momentum

Project Excite has sparked enthusiasm across the district. Principals, teachers, ETHS students, and community members have expressed interest in growing the program. And perhaps most importantly, families are fully behind the effort—engaging with teachers, supporting their children’s involvement, and advocating for more.

Looking Ahead

This is just the beginning. Project Excite envisions adding new cohorts each year while continuing to support existing ones, creating a pipeline of support that stretches from third grade to high school graduation.