Frequently asked questions

Nothing. Chemdu is completely free for schools and students. Our teachers are volunteers, our curriculum is free to use, and we don't charge for matchmaking or hosting.

A computer with internet and a webcam. We use Zoom or Google Meet, both of which are free. Students can join from a phone or tablet if needed. Schools without classroom video equipment can request a list of low-cost recommended setups.

No. Chemdu is grade-free by design. Students attend for knowledge, not credit. We offer optional certificates of attendance for students who complete a full level.

We prioritize schools with no chemistry program at all. If we have available volunteers, we may also offer tutoring support, after-school enrichment, or sub coverage for schools with limited chemistry access.

Fill out the volunteer form. We'll contact you within two weeks with a school match based on your time zone and availability.

No. All 24 lectures (Level 1 + Level 2) are provided with full scripts, slides, household demos, and safety guidelines. Volunteers can teach exactly to the script or adapt as they prefer.

About 1 hour per week for the lecture, plus 15–30 minutes for prep. There is no grading, no homework review, no after-class admin. We've intentionally designed volunteering to fit busy academic schedules.

Primarily, yes. We focus on high schools because that's where the chemistry gap is widest. Underserved middle schools may also apply — Level 1 is appropriate for advanced 8th graders.

We prioritize states with the highest need based on chemistry access data: Mississippi, Louisiana, New Mexico, Alabama, South Carolina, Arkansas, West Virginia, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Tennessee. Schools in any state are welcome to apply — we'll work to find a volunteer.

Manually, by Chemdu coordinators. We consider time zone, availability, expertise (general vs. organic vs. all), and the school's preferred schedule. We never auto-match — every pairing is reviewed.

Yes. The school administrator will need to confirm before classes begin, but anyone — parent, student, teacher — can submit the initial request. We'll follow up to coordinate with the school.

Yes. Before any volunteer is matched with a school, we verify their institutional affiliation, conduct reference checks, and follow each partner school's required background check procedures. Volunteers also agree to a code of conduct.

We're in the process of incorporating as a 501(c)(3). Until that's complete, we operate under a fiscal sponsor — details available on request.