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Pride in STEM - Creating Inclusive STEM Learning Environments
For years, individuals in STEM fields have been calling for more inclusivity for groups like women and
OST Programs - Where the Magic Happens!
December 11, 2018
Children learning to work together on a soccer team. Kids in the midst of a gardening activity stopping to examine grasshoppers in the garden. Youth learning about and solving real-world problems.
STEM Celebrations in December
November 30, 2018
World AIDS Day, Computer Science Education Week, Hour of Code, Disability Day, World Soil Day, International Day of Veterinary Medicine, Gingerbread House Day, Games Day
Out-of-School Time STEM Learning Opportunities Inspire Young People to Explore, Discover & Create
November 13, 2018
The process of teaching and learning science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) offers youth opportunities to make sense of the world they live in and prepare them for the future workforce. High-quality STEM opportunities help youth develop critical-thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills; enhance creativity; and engage in an investigative process.
STEM Celebrations in November
October 22, 2018
Family Literacy Day, International Games Week, National STEM Day, National Day of Design, International Science Center and Science Museum Day, Project Feeder Watch, Veteran's Day, American Education Week, America Recycles Day
Staff are the Key to Quality OST Programs
October 16, 2018
Even though our legislators and government don't always appear to see the importance of out-of-school time (OST) programs, those of us who have worked in the field or have children who attend these programs, know that they make a huge difference in the lives of children and families. Why are they so effective in supporting youth success?
STEM Celebrations in October
October 2, 2018
Computer Learning Month, Campus Sustainability Month, World Architecture Day, World Farm Animals Day, World Space Week, World Teacher Day, National Nano Day, Astronomy Day, Train Your Brain Day, Earth Science Day, World Students Day, Nuclear Science Day, Conflict Resolution Day, International Observe the Moon Night, National Chemistry Week, Animation Day,
Making Connections to STEAM Careers
September 25, 2018
At an early age, I discovered a talent for drawing and painting. I recall my Kindergarten classmates telling me, "You should be an artist when you grow up." Over many years, that talent grew into a passion. However, as I got older I had a difficult time seeing potential careers within my passion for the arts and creativity. I ended up pursuing a career in graphic design.
What is STEAM?
September 11, 2018
Recently, STEAM has caught on as a buzzword in K-12 and afterschool learning. Short for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math, STEAM is more than a subject area. It is meant to be an interdisciplinary way to develop creative problem-solving skills in youth. The arts have a profound impact on youth, educators, and educational environments (Fiske, 1999). In fact, the arts have the ability to:
STEM Celebrations in September
August 30, 2018
Read a New Book Month Month of September It's read a new book month! The perfect time to add a few books to your STEM afterschool program! Here are four titles I love that take on STEM topics and practices.