SteamRocket Learning Lab Soars This Summer with Record-Breaking Participation
SteamRocket is thrilled to announce the outstanding success of its Learning Lab summer programs. Over the summer, SteamRocket hosted 40 vibrant and hands-on workshops covering a wide range of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) topics, engaging a remarkable 889 children from across the Coachella Valley.
Innovative Programs and Collaborations
This summer's Learning Lab featured a variety of innovative programs, with highlights including:
Alien Garden: Growing Mars
Children from Beaumont to Mecca delved into the wonders of extraterrestrial agriculture. Participants learned about SteamRocket’s involvement in last year’s Plant the Moon and Mars Challenge and tried growing vegetables in simulated Martian soil. This unique program inspired young minds to think beyond our planet and explore sustainable solutions for future space exploration.
Shake Lab: Earthquake Simulator
This program, in collaboration with the Coachella Valley Disaster Preparedness Network (CDVPN), brought earthquake safety to the forefront. Carla Sullivan-Dilley from CDVPN educated Desert Hot Springs youth on earthquake preparedness and safety measures. Following the educational session, children built spaghetti towers and tested their strength on an earthquake simulator, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Engineering Challenges
SteamRocket’s workshops also included a series of engaging engineering challenges such as Build-a-Boat, The Great Paper Plane Challenge, and Castle Siege: Catapults. These activities were designed to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in a fun and interactive environment.
Minecraft Coding Club and micro:bit Coding
Back by popular demand, the Minecraft Coding Club captivated young gamers, while SteamRocket's new micro:bit Coding workshops catered to non-gamers interested in coding and electronics.
Community Partnerships and Milestones
SteamRocket’s summer programs were made possible through collaborations with the Beaumont Library District, Indio Library, Coachella Library, Mecca Library, and Desert Hot Springs Recreation Center. A major highlight was the sponsorship from The LEGO Foundation and ChangeX for the International Day of Play. SteamRocket partnered with Indio Library and Little Street Music Hall to host the Valley Kids PlayFest, which drew nearly 300 attendees to Indio on June 27, 2024.
Aiming High and Exceeding Goals
SteamRocket set a goal of engaging 500 valley kids in their Learning Lab workshops this summer, a target that was not only met but significantly exceeded with 889 participants. This incredible achievement underscores the growing interest and enthusiasm for STEAM education in the Coachella Valley.
Elle Decker, co-founder of SteamRocket, expressed her gratitude and excitement: "We are overwhelmed by the positive response from the community and the incredible participation in our Learning Lab programs. This summer has been a testament to the power of STEAM education in inspiring and empowering young minds. We thank our donors, CV Giving Day, RAP Foundation, CV Spin, The LEGO Foundation, and ChangeX. We also thank our partners Indio Library, Coachella Library, Mecca Library, City of Desert Hot Springs, and Beaumont Libray District for their support and collaboration. Together, we are making a meaningful impact on the lives of valley kids."
Looking ahead, SteamRocket is excited to announce that it has been awarded a grant from The LEGO Foundation to bring FIRST® LEGO® League to Valley kids. This initiative will further enhance STEAM opportunities and encourage a new generation of innovators and problem solvers.
For updates on upcoming programs and events, please visit the SteamRocket site or email crystal@steamrocket.co.
About SteamRocket:
SteamRocket is a nonprofit organization committed to providing STEAM-based workshops, classes, and experiences to children in the Coachella Valley. Through hands-on learning and innovative programs, SteamRocket inspires and empowers the next generation of leaders in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
