Boys & Girls Club Of New Rochelle STEM Program Seeks To Inspire Next Generation of Scientists

Science and math have long proven to be the toughest subjects for most school children. Recognizing this challenge, the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle launched an innovative new summer camp program to provide the support and enriched educational activities that empower kids to succeed in school and explore the possibility of careers in science, engineering or related fields.

Our country has dire need for professionals in the areas science, technology, engineering and math. This is paramount in order to meet our economic and security needs. Children need a vision for their future that both challenge and encourages them to do their best in school. The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle is addressing both of those needs through its new STEM Camp. STEM is an acronym representing the blending of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math in the school curriculum and in the work force. It represents a dynamic approach to education that involves project based, hands-on learning activities and lessons.

STEM Camp encompasses twice weekly team building hours of knowledge blended with educationally based field trips to local learning sites. The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle has collaborated with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Apple, Green Scientist, and Mobius Fields to implement entertaining and high quality education opportunities for participating campers. To date, students have studied catapult design; DNA extraction; bungee cord elasticity and analyzed its relation to kinetic energy. The STEM Camp is under the direction of Carmen Krause and Deirdre Carrobis, M.Ed. Through STEM Instructor’s Camp Curriculum, the Club works to inspire 26 – 30 campers to enjoy science and math in a relaxed, fun and friendly environment.

“Our organization is committed to ensuring each child the best possible future and our STEM Camp is one way we accomplish this, says Quay Watkins, Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle Executive Director.” “Children learn best when they have fun and share an experience with their friends.” I truly believe participation in the program will encourage our kids to seek careers they might not have considered otherwise!”

The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the local children of our community. By providing a safe place to learn and grow, as well as life enhancing programs and character developing experiences; the club strives to enable all members, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. With locations throughout the city, the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle’s programs serve over 2,000 kids age 6-18 each year.

For further information about the STEM Program, please contact Carmen Krause at Ckrause@bgcnr.org or call (924) 235-3736.