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Six years ago, Rajah Caruth sat in a classroom at School Without Walls High School, learning to race through a computer screen. Today, the 21-year-old racing phenomenon returns to the District to inspire the next generation of STEM innovators.
Caruth has partnered with Microsoft to launch "How STEM Leads to Speed: Racing with Rajah," a groundbreaking STEM education program that mirrors his own unique path into professional racing. Students at DC Public Library will soon experience the physics of NASCAR racing through state-of-the-art simulators while learning crucial STEM skills - an opportunity that wasn't available when Caruth was growing up in the District.
"Collaborating with Microsoft and GM Motorsports to introduce this curriculum is an incredible opportunity," said Caruth. "I want to give back to the community and inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators. This program is about showing kids that they can achieve anything they set their minds to, both on and off the track."
Darrell Booker, Corporate Affairs Specialist at Microsoft, added, "It's been an honor to collaborate with Rajah on developing this curriculum. We are not just fostering the next NASCAR driver, but also the future leaders in motorsports and technology careers."
"DC Public Library is proud to lead the way in fostering innovation and ambition in our youth through the 'How STEM Leads to Speed' program," said Richard Reyes-Gavilan, executive director of the DC Public Library. "Every young person deserves to see themselves in stories of triumph and possibility. By partnering with Rajah Caruth and his program, we are showcasing what is possible when passion meets opportunity and empowering our youth to imagine and pursue lives full of purpose."
DC Public Library will be the first library system to implement "How STEM Leads to Speed: Racing with Rajah.” The program demonstrates how public libraries can create powerful learning experiences by connecting students' personal interests with academic growth and career opportunities. Through hands-on racing simulators, students explore the physics and engineering behind motorsports while working collaboratively with peers. As they design virtual cars and analyze racing data, they apply mathematical concepts to real-world challenges. The library environment allows them to connect with local racing enthusiasts and STEM professionals, building networks that can lead to future opportunities. This approach to learning - where personal passion fuels academic discovery in a supportive community setting - exemplifies the library's role in nurturing both formal and informal education.
Building on its role as a trusted community hub for learning, DC Public Library will expand its STEM offerings through this program, where young people can:
• Experience hands-on STEM learning through racing simulators
• Connect with peers who share similar interests
• Explore career pathways in motorsports and technology
• Access industry-standard tools and resources
• Build relationships with STEM professionals and mentors
The program is part of a larger national rollout that will include more than 20 Microsoft Best Buy Teen Tech Centers and several nonprofit partners. Key collaborators include eNASCAR, iRacing, Community, RCX, and the Urban Youth Racing School.
The curriculum will be implemented at selected DC Public Library locations this summer equipped with racing simulators and advanced technology. Weekly sessions will connect fundamental STEM concepts with real-world applications in motorsports, from aerodynamics to data analytics.