Learn about spanDNA Families programs

Voluntary, family-centered school and community STEAM programs

spanning science, history, identity, and civic belonging through family stories, case studies, and optional DNA learning.

Families learning together

How the Program Works

Families choose how to participate based on what feels right for them.

Family Storytelling & Interviews

Families share their stories, heritage, and personal narratives. No testing required.

De-identified Historical Case Studies

Explore real historical narratives and examples that don't identify specific individuals.

Optional DNA Learning

For families with existing DNA results or who wish to participate with limited donated kits.

Always Together

Students never work alone. They learn with family members, relatives, or guided groups.

Privacy, consent, and cultural respect first.

Privacy & Consent

The program emphasizes privacy, consent, and cultural respect. Multilingual accessibility ensures all families can participate.

No DNA Requirement

No requirement for students to take DNA tests. Participation is fully voluntary and based on family comfort level.

Equity-Centered Design

Designed specifically as Title I–appropriate, ensuring accessibility and relevance for all communities.

Family-Centered Learning

Students never work alone. They learn in the company of family members, relatives, or guided groups, fostering connection and mutual support.

Core Value

Voluntary Participation

Families choose what's right for them.

Core Value

Cultural Respect

Honoring diverse traditions and perspectives.

Core Value

Transparent Communication

Clear policies and open dialogue with families.

Aligned with Georgia and DeKalb County School District curricular goals

Integrating STEM/STEAM, social-emotional learning, civics, and humanities.

STEM/STEAM

Students engage with scientific inquiry, data interpretation, and technological applications through family stories and optional DNA learning contexts.

Social-Emotional Learning

Family-centered learning builds trust, communication skills, and emotional resilience through collaborative discovery and shared narratives.

Civics & Civic Belonging

Students explore identity, heritage, and community contribution, understanding their place within larger social and historical contexts.

Humanities & History

Through family storytelling and historical case studies, students develop critical thinking about narrative, identity, and historical perspectives.

spanDNA Families aligns with state standards while maintaining flexibility for diverse communities and learning styles. All activities are designed to integrate naturally with existing classroom instruction.

spanDNA Families for Schools and Communities

For Schools & Districts

Integrate spanDNA Families into your curriculum with full support and alignment to Georgia standards.

Title I–appropriate and equity-centered design

Integrated STEM/STEAM, civics, and humanities alignment

Flexible implementation for diverse classroom structures

Complete privacy and consent protocols built-in

No DNA testing requirement for participation

Professional support and training provided

Learn More

For Families & Community Partners

Engage your family in meaningful learning experiences on your own terms.

Completely voluntary and family-led participation

Multiple pathways to fit your comfort level

Multilingual resources and accessibility support

Celebrate family stories and cultural heritage

No cost for core family storytelling participation

Community learning groups available

Get Involved

Get Involved Today

Whether you're a school administrator, educator, family member, or community partner, we'd love to hear from you.

About Your Information

All information shared is handled with the same privacy, consent, and respect that guides spanDNA Families. Your data is never sold or used commercially.