Elementary Institute of Science

What it reported doing in 2024

Elementary Institute of Science (EIS) is a premier science enrichment center dedicated to developing STEM skills and interests in order to address the widening gap of under-represented students in science. Through inquiry-based project learning activities, children are able explore, experiment and understand the world of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). EIS was established in Southeast San Diego in 1964. The founder, Tom Watts, started a hands-on science club in the back of his classroom. He believed science education would provide a strong foundation for the students to continue on to college and to succeed in the rapidly expanding STEM-skilled workforce. The after-school club thrived. EIS became one of the first and finest after-school STEM programs in the United States.The EIS Science and Technology Learning Center is a landmark building which provides the ideal environment for hands-on learning and exploration. The 15,000-square foot facility includes five science labs, two IT labs, a photography lab, lecture theatre and conference room. EIS provides on-going, progressive STEM programs that continue to challenge and engage students from the age of 7 through high school graduation in a specialized laboratory setting. All subjects include a hands-on learning component. Classes have a maximum ratio of 10 students to one instructor. The programs encompass 18 different subjects with continuously improved curriculum and topical themes. EIS programs utilize community resources and collaborations. Programs are offered both after-school and on Saturdays, in addition to a popular Summer Science Camp. EIS approach is designed to produce long-term learning gains and sustain interest in STEM learning through stepped levels. Program activities include field trips, presentations and career exploration.Over 10,000 students from all over San Diego County have attended the Elementary Institute of Science. Many EIS students have gone on to attend the finest universities in the United States and have become doctors, scientists and other STEM professionals.

Financial Efficiency

• Mission deployment rate: 100%; rating input score 100
• Program expense ratio: 79.7%; rating input score 80
• Fundraising efficiency: $3.78 raised per $1 spent on fundraising; rating input score 12; 12th percentile among comparable filings

Transparency & Controls

• Consistency checks: 100%; rating input score 100; 63rd percentile among comparable filings
• Pay-setting controls: Limited
• Foreign activity oversight: Limited
• Grant itemization coverage: Limited
• Major donor itemization: Yes; rating input score 100
• Related-party transparency: Limited

Accountability

• Independent voting board: 100%; rating input score 100; 63rd percentile among comparable filings
• Governance controls: 8 of 8 controls in place; rating input score 100
  • Conflict-of-interest policy: Pass
  • Whistleblower policy: Pass
  • Document-retention policy: Pass
  • CEO compensation review process: NotApplicable
  • Other executive compensation review process: Pass
  • Form 990 shared with the board: Pass
  • Board meeting minutes documented: Pass
  • Audit committee oversight: Pass
  • Independent financial-statement audit: Pass

Sustainability

• Operating margin: -35.5%; rating input score 5; 5th percentile among comparable filings
• Total-asset coverage ratio: 2.88; rating input score 74; 74th percentile among comparable filings
• Liabilities to assets ratio: 0.02; rating input score 63; 63rd percentile among comparable filings
• Officer compensation ratio: 13.9%; rating input score 25; 25th percentile among comparable filings

Growth

• Program expense growth: 7.9% per year; rating input score 100; 55th percentile among comparable filings
• Revenue growth: 6.2% per year; rating input score 100; 50th percentile among comparable filings
• Asset growth: 1.1% per year; rating input score 100; 21st percentile among comparable filings