Unlocking the Potential: Gary's Summer STEM Program Ignites Creativity and Learning

In the heart of Gary, Indiana, a summer school program is transforming the way students engage with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects. Led by Tomeka Pope, these hands-on learning experiences are proving that education can be both enriching and enjoyable, even during the summer months.

Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators

Hands-on Exploration Sparks Curiosity

The students in Tomeka Pope's STEM class are not your typical summer school attendees. Instead of sitting passively in a classroom, they are actively creating their own tic-tac-toe boards using a drill, a clamp, and their boundless imagination. This design process, as Pope calls it, allows the nearly 700 Lake County students in grades 1-9 to engage with STEM concepts in a tangible and engaging way.For Caisyn Bond, an 8-year-old student at the Charter School of the Dunes, the experience has been nothing short of transformative. "It's pretty cool, and I get to learn new things," he exclaims, his eyes shining with excitement. "I like building." The hands-on approach to learning has ignited a spark within these young minds, fostering a love for STEM subjects that may have been previously overlooked.

Bridging the Gap: Addressing Learning Needs

The Summer Learning Labs program, funded by the Indiana Department of Education and in collaboration with The Mind Trust, an Indianapolis education nonprofit, is designed to address the learning needs of students during the summer months. Unlike traditional summer school programs that focus solely on reading and math, this initiative takes a more holistic approach, incorporating STEM-based activities that challenge and inspire the participants."This is a design process," Pope explains to her class, emphasizing the importance of planning and problem-solving in the creation of their tic-tac-toe boards. These hands-on experiences not only teach practical skills but also foster critical thinking, creativity, and a sense of accomplishment that can be difficult to achieve in a traditional classroom setting.

Fostering Engagement and Enthusiasm

The excitement and engagement of the students are palpable. As they giggle and watch with awe as a hand-powered drill is introduced, it becomes clear that this is no ordinary summer school. "It gives me something to do in the summer," says Simeir Carpenter, a 9-year-old student at the 21st Century Charter School in Gary, who declares the STEM activities as her favorite part of the program.The enthusiasm extends beyond the students themselves. Deborah Black, of DHB & Associates, and Vanessa Allen-McCloud, president and CEO of the Urban League of Northwest Indiana, have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of the Summer Learning Labs program. "We know they're feeling engaged," says Black, recounting a grandmother who brought her grandson to the program and shared that he had cried because he had to leave early the previous week.

Expanding Horizons and Unlocking Potential

The program's reach extends beyond the confines of the classroom, with state lawmakers, including Rep. Vernon Smith, D-Gary, and Sen. Lonnie Randolph, D-East Chicago, joining the tour of the various sites. This collaboration and support from local and state officials underscores the importance of investing in programs that can truly make a difference in the lives of young learners.As the program continues to evolve, organizers have identified areas for improvement, such as the need for transportation assistance to ensure consistent attendance. Despite these challenges, the impact of the Summer Learning Labs program is undeniable. "We sure hope it's refunded," says Black, expressing the desire to expand the program and reach even more students in Lake County, where an estimated 13,000 could potentially benefit.The tic-tac-toe boards created by the students in Tomeka Pope's STEM class are more than just simple games; they represent the boundless potential of these young minds. By fostering a love for STEM subjects and providing hands-on learning opportunities, the Summer Learning Labs program is paving the way for a future generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders who will shape the world around them.