We believe history isn’t just something we learn — it’s something we create.

The genesis of Orion STEM Schools can be traced back to an unassuming yet profound letter that came to Selvei Rajkumar in 1986. As a passionate individual with a dream of contributing positively to her community, Selvei and a few of her friends reached out to none other than Mother Teresa, hoping to understand how they, too, could leave an indelible mark in the world.

Mother Teresa's words to them were simple yet resonant: they could indeed make an impact on their community if they dedicated themselves to the noble cause of educating children. It was a revelation to Selvei, a sign that illuminated her path forward. This response was more than just advice; it sowed the seeds of a dream, the dream of starting a school.

Her first move? Delving deep into market research to understand the educational landscape, potential challenges, and the unique offerings that Orion STEM Schools could bring to the fore. This meticulous groundwork laid the foundation for what was soon to become a beacon of excellence in STEM and entrepreneurial education.

The meticulous market study unveiled an undeniable truth: there was a pressing need for high-quality STEM education. The future of work was shifting, with emerging industries and evolving technology on the horizon. To equip students for professions that might not even exist yet, a robust STEM foundation was essential.

During this exploration, another significant revelation came from a Harvard study, stating that a staggering 90% of brain development occurs in the initial five years of life. This pivotal insight shifted the focus, underscoring the paramount importance of investing in early childhood education.

Understanding the significance of providing top-tier education, Selvei Rajkumar embarked on a mission to amalgamate the very best resources from around the globe. She reached out to leading institutions, each renowned for its groundbreaking work and contributions in STEM, entrepreneurship, design thinking, and holistic child development.

From the advanced methodologies of UChicago STEM Education to the business acumen emphasized by MIT's Disciplined Entrepreneurship, Selvei sought to infuse Orion STEM Schools' curriculum with a rich blend of academic rigor and practical know-how. The inclusive problem-solving approach of Stanford D.School's design thinking was another gem, ensuring students are trained to think outside the box. Moreover, the ethos of nurturing, compassionate young leaders found a strong ally in Harvard's Making Caring Common Project.

 
These strategic partnerships were not just about curriculum enhancement. They laid the foundation for a reservoir of resources and set the stage for continuous professional development, ensuring that the educators at Orion STEM Schools are always at the forefront of pedagogical advancements.

Every educational institution needs a home – a space that reflects its ethos, ambitions, and dreams. For Orion STEM Schools, finding the perfect location was paramount, a cornerstone upon which its legacy would be built.

The moment of serendipity struck in 2019. While accompanying her nieces to a soccer game at Nike Park, Selvei's keen eyes caught sight of a tract of land lying across the park. It wasn't just any piece of land; it bore the promise of possibilities, a canvas awaiting the brushstrokes of a visionary.

Recognizing the potential it held and the strategic advantages of its proximity to a vibrant community hub like Nike Park, Selvei knew she had found the ground where dreams would take root and flourish. This significant step not only marked a monumental milestone in the journey of Orion STEM Schools but also symbolized the foundation upon which countless futures would be molded and shaped.

2021 marked a pivotal chapter in the unfolding saga of Orion STEM Schools. As the dream that began as a seed in Selvei's heart grew, it needed a tangible form – a physical manifestation of its core beliefs and aspirations.

With the canvas of the chosen land waiting, Selvei and her dedicated team embarked on the architectural odyssey. Collaborating with seasoned experts and leaning heavily on exhaustive research, they meticulously crafted a building design that would be more than just walls and roofs. It was to be a living testament to the school's commitment to excellence, innovation, and holistic growth.

Each stroke in the blueprint, every chosen material, and every space conceptualized was a step closer to turning the dream into reality. The design phase wasn't just about erecting a structure; it was about building an institution that would stand as an emblem of transformative education for generations to come.

The journey of Orion STEM Schools reached a crucial juncture in July 2023. Every vision, every dream requires validation and the right environment to thrive. After years of preparation, dedication, and navigating bureaucratic intricacies, the moment of affirmation arrived.

The city of Naperville, recognizing the potential impact of this educational powerhouse, granted its official approval for the construction of Orion STEM Schools on the chosen site. This endorsement was not merely a nod to proceed but a testament to the trust placed in Selvei's vision and the school's promise.

With the city's blessings in hand, the path was cleared to turn the carefully designed blueprints into a living, breathing institution—a hub of learning, innovation, and growth for Naperville's brightest young minds.

Following the successful elementary campus plans, the community expressed strong interest in a high school. In response, Selvei and her family secured a nearly 90,000-square-foot building at 4520 Weaver Parkway, just a half mile from the elementary site. Work is now underway, with due diligence and city permits in progress, to establish a cutting-edge middle and high school campus—furthering Orion’s mission to equip learners of all ages with the skills, mindset, and inspiration to create positive change.