developing STEAM programs for middle school girls through community collaborations

摘要

Every female student needs an opportunity for success in STEAM. At Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School, a strong foundation has been built to enhance the community collaborations by allocating resources to further strengthen the focus and connections made during activities such as the annual career fair, the robotics programs, the makerspace, and the family STEAM night event. It is the hope of the author that the information within will provide some guidance in how to successfully implement a "girls-only" STEAM program, either as a stand-alone or in conjunction with existing after-school programs. The value of community collaborations and their need within educational settings benefit students and will positively impact society. As we prepare the next generation of students for STEAM careers, let us continue the dialog and efforts to further develop STEAM-related programs designed specifically for middle school girls, formulate plans for implementing long-term, sustained Girls In STEAM programs, and expand our lists of potential business and community partners in which collaborations are mutually beneficial.