STEM Outreach Club Launches Innovative Educational Initiative for Lower School Students
The newly established Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Outreach Club launched its first structured educational program, illustrating a sophisticated approach to interdisciplinary learning and student engagement. The inaugural event, a carefully designed slime-making workshop, is the first in a comprehensive six-week series of after-school STEM activities.
The club's leadership team including Kayin B. ’25, Aubrey C. ’27, Nandita B. ’27, and Leighton R. ’27, has developed a meticulously planned curriculum that bridges academic rigor with interactive learning experiences. Their strategic approach reflects a deep commitment to scientific education and cross-grade mentorship.
The primary objectives of the STEM Outreach Club include:
- Introducing younger students to scientific concepts through hands-on experiences
- Fostering interdisciplinary learning
- Creating meaningful interactions between Upper and Lower School students
- Developing scientific curiosity and critical thinking skills
The slime-making workshop successfully integrated theoretical scientific principles with practical application, engaging Grade 3 through Grade 5 students in an immersive learning environment. The club organized a hands-on activity where Lower School students learned to make slime by combining glue with borax solution. The event began with a brief presentation by Upper School students, who explained the science behind chemical reactions that are responsible for slime's unique texture.
After distributing the materials, each Lower School students paired with an Upper School mentor to create their slime. Together, they explored its properties through play and observation, experimenting with fun colors and textures. This engaging activity offered an accessible introduction to polymers and chemical interactions, making complex concepts easy to grasp. The 1:1 pairing fostered a vibrant atmosphere of connection, collaboration, leadership, and mentorship, making it a memorable experience for all involved.
The club will meet again in late January and subsequent workshops are planned through the spring. The STEM Outreach Club represents a forward-thinking model of educational enrichment, demonstrating the potential for student-led initiatives to enhance scientific literacy and interdisciplinary learning.
"The club leaders researched, pursued, and thoroughly planned each activity with determination, dedication, and passion, to share their enthusiasm for STEM with younger students. It was a smashing success – and there was lots of laughter, fun, and learning," said Alessandra King, Upper School Math Teacher and Faculty Advisor.