At NextGen Smart Learning Solutions, our mission is to empower K–12 students to think like scientists—questioning, investigating, and discovering through meaningful STEM and environmental learning experiences. We provide expert coaching and research-based guidance that transform curiosity into authentic scientific inquiry. By partnering with schools, teachers, and community organizations, we create rigorous, hands-on learning opportunities—especially through outdoor and watershed education—that build critical thinking, innovation, and environmental stewardship. Our goal is to prepare the next generation of young scientists to explore boldly, compete confidently, and lead in an ever-changing world.
Our Services in Review
-
Coaching Students
NextGen Smart Learning Solutions provides engaging, standards-aligned STEM learning experiences that integrate meaningful classroom instruction with hands-on outdoor investigations. Through in-person or virtual workshops and coaching, students develop the skills needed to design and conduct authentic scientific research, including generating research questions, collecting and analyzing data, and communicating findings through written and oral presentations. These experiences strengthen students’ capacity for scientific inquiry, deepen their understanding of environmental systems, and prepare them for long-term research projects, science fairs, and other STEM learning opportunities. Students become more informed citizens, stewards.
-
Let's Bridge the Gap
Merging environmental education with authentic scientific research transforms how students experience science. When students investigate real environmental questions in their own communities, they move beyond memorization and engage in meaningful inquiry—asking questions, collecting and analyzing data, and communicating evidence-based conclusions. Yet many schools struggle to provide these experiences due to limited instructional time, staffing, and research expertise. NextGen Smart Learning Solutions helps bridge this gap by providing structured, standards-aligned programs that support teachers while engaging students in rigorous classroom and outdoor investigations. These experiences strengthen scientific literacy, critical thinking, and environmental awareness. Even if students do not pursue scientific careers, they gain the knowledge and habits of mind needed to become informed citizens and responsible stewards of the natural world.
-
Teacher, School, and Community Partnerships
NGSLS mission is to strengthen the science community. It will provide schools with structured professional development, student scientific investigation training, and ongoing instructional support designed to help teachers implement sustainable experiential learning such as Meaningful Watershed Experience Education programming. The organization’s model emphasizes teacher empowerment, practical classroom implementation, and strong community partnerships, ensuring that meaningful experiences can continue beyond the duration of an initial project.
Meet the Founder
Cheryl Coronado, M.S.Ed., is a dedicated science educator with over 20 years of experience in teaching biology, guiding student research, and leading STEM initiatives. As a former department chair, curriculum writer, and grant writer, she has helped countless students develop strong scientific thinking and achieve success in competitive research settings. Cheryl founded NextGen Smart Learning Solutions to expand access to high-quality STEM coaching for students. Her mission is to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and empower the next generation of young people to explore, discover, and excel.
Contact Us
Interested in working together? Let’s meet and discuss your needs. Fill out some info, allow me to describe what services you may find helpful. In the “message” section let me know what projects, science competition or goal you are working toward. We will be in touch shortly. Can’t wait to hear from you!