This site is a resource for parents and a place for students to share their STEM experience.
OSU Extension, Pickaway County and Teays Valley School District have teamed up to plan and implement the district’s third annual after-school elementary-wide STEM Club. This program takes place approximately eight times a month, twice a month in each of the four elementary buildings from 3:30-5:00 p.m. Participation is limited to 25-students per building, engaging both 4th and 5th graders. We are implementing a registration fee* this year which goes directly back to your students in quality programming and STEM take-home projects. (Please visit the calendar tab for club dates.)
The goal of the program is to promote student engagement and interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields. Participants are engaged in hands-on STEM activities and career exploration with visiting professionals and educators from the community and The Ohio State University. The program also involves over a dozen high school mentor students that assist with club activities while themselves gaining both soft and technical skills, leadership, community service, and college/career exploration opportunities.
The club focuses on STEM fields and building a 21st century skill set. It involves students in the learning process, stresses critical thinking and problem solving. The activities focus on collaboration, team building, communication, helping peers, and finding a passion for knowledge and making a difference in the world.
STEM Clubs are an important and valuable tool for students learning and one of the best ways to engage students in science, technology, engineering and maths. Clubs allow students the opportunity to explore, try new things, gain knowledge, acquire skillsets and understanding. Through fun, exciting activities that promote team working, challenge expectations and boost confidence, students can make informed decisions and plan their future career. By supporting student learning, clubs help improve knowledge of STEM subjects and ultimately employability skills. Improved skillsets and abilities can only benefit future employers.
A study by the Afterschool Alliance found that participants in STEM-themed clubs have “improved attitudes toward STEM fields and careers.” The study also found that these kids have an increased knowledge of STEM skills, such as computer and technological aptitude, communication, teamwork, and analytical thought. Most encouraging, STEM club students demonstrated a “higher likelihood of graduation and pursuing a STEM career.”
*The sustainability of the club lies between the continued partnership of OSU Extension, grants, business sponsorships, creative collaboration between professionals and academics, as well as, charging a nominal participation fee with financial hardship waivers available. We want our club to continue to be a safe and inspiring meet-up to learn and explore STEM in all its forms and interdisciplinary problems and solutions.
