The Science, Engineering, Mathematics and Aerospace Academy (SEMAA) of Wayne State University recently received two checks worth $50,000 as the result of new partnerships it formed with the AT&T Foundation and DTE Energy Corp.

The AT&T Foundation presented SEMAA Director Marsha Cheeks with a check for $25,000 at the program's recent awards ceremony. DTE Energy also presented Cheeks with a check for $25,000 and 30 computers for the SEMAA program.

The mission of the SEMAA program is to stimulate interest and career focus in science, engineering, mathematics and technology. Over 400 students in grades K-12 are involved in the weekend and summer program. The SEMAA program curriculum focuses on science including aeronautics, engineering, mathematics and technology.

There are three eight-week sessions on Saturdays during the fall, winter and spring semesters. There are also four one-week sessions held during the summer. The students and teachers are recruited primarily from the Detroit Public Schools. All students in the Detroit area are encouraged to apply.

Christine Beatty, chief of staff for Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, said SEMAA would become part of "Mayor's Time," a new after school program, in the fall. Beatty made the announcement at SEMAA's recent awards ceremony.

The Detroit SEMAA program began in 1997. It is a partnership with Wayne State University, the Detroit Public Schools and the NASA Glenn Research Center.