Girls and STEM are a Natural Fit For Curiosity Academy
Flint, MI (9/20/16) Curiosity Academy, a community based STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts) program for girls is back for a third year and the program continues to grow!
Curiosity Academy is a collaborative community based program for 6th-8th grade girls in Genesee County. Partnering institutions Kettering University and University of Michigan-Flint work collaboratively to offer high quality STEM programming, including field trips and site visits to local venues. The afterschool community STEM club for girls provides a risk free opportunity to explore STEM concepts without the pressure of grades or standardized tests and encourage females to pursue further studies in STEM fields while providing positive role models.
Students will have an exciting opportunity to explore STEM concepts through a variety of hands-on activities which support their academic coursework and curiosity in science and related fields. Plans are underway to expose students to a variety of fun, yet educational experiences. Participants will enjoy learning the science behind music and theater, how to read blueprints, study concussions, health science and much more! Curiosity Academy offers exposure to professionals in a variety of career fields, including chemistry, engineering, architecture, manufacturing, construction, health and biology.
Co-Directors for 2016 are Monique Wilhelm and Samantha Jackson of University of Michigan-Flint and Essence Wilson of Communities First, Inc.
The positive impact of the program is clear to directors, students and parents. According to Samantha Jackson, “We knew the interest was there and we knew if we caught the girls at an early age, they could pursue what they wanted, rather than what others think they should.”
The program is currently recruiting students for the 2016-2017 school year (October-June). Up to 25 girls will be accepted and the cost is $150. Tuition assistance and transportation support are available to those who need it. For more information, please visit blogs.umflint.edu/curiosityacademy or call Samantha Jackson at (810) 762-3277.
