College for Kids at STCC this summer offers fun learning experiences

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – College for Kids at Springfield Technical Community College this summer will feature a range of engaging programs that expose young people between 11 and 16 to learning opportunities in STEM fields.

STCC offers eight sessions between June and August. College for Kids at STCC will give tweens and teens the chance to have fun learning about airbrushing, basketball and physics, theater, public speaking and more. As the only technical community college in Massachusetts, STCC will offer participants a chance to explore programs focusing on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

“We’re excited to offer young people an opportunity to get a college student experience through these sessions,” said Lidya Rivera-Early, director of Community Engagement at STCC. “At STCC, we love hosting College for Kids on our campus. It’s an important program for the college. We love connecting with young people to show them early on how STCC can transform their lives.”

Here are the College for Kids at STCC programs planned for June through August:

  • Basketball and Physics, June 26-30, (ages 11-14): The Springfield Ballers will help players of all abilities develop their athletic skills, and enhance their skill set in all positions
  • Art Basic Design, June 26-30, (ages 11-14): This studio course is an introduction to the basic language of two-dimensional design, providing the foundation needed to engage students with a variety of visual problems and creative processes. STCC is partnering with the Springfield Museums and the course will be held at their location.
  • JUS10H University, July 10-14 (ages 13-16): This class educates children about fashion on a new and unique level. Students will learn the basic fundamentals in sewing, modeling and styling and how to build a career in the fashion industry.
  • Theater, July 10-14, (ages 11-14): This class is designed to help build self-awareness, cultivate self-confidence, and help students explore their inner creativity. Students will learn teamwork through theatre games, acting exercises, and improvisation.
  • It’s Your Turn to Take the Mic, July 17-21, (ages 11-14): A workshop in public speaking that seeks to empower girls to have more confidence and self-esteem and develop the poise and communication skills needed to engage in effective public speaking.
  • Airbrushing, July 24-28 (ages 13-16): Does your child love painting? Using vibrant colors and designs, students will learn how to operate an airbrushing machine to design projects. (This program is offered in partnership with the STEM Starter Academy.)
  • Create Mobile Apps, July 24-28 (ages 13-16): This session is an introduction to the exciting world of developing apps for mobile and tablet devices. Students will create applications for mobile computing devices that culminate with a student portfolio of Android Apps. (This program is offered in partnership with the STEM Starter Academy.)
  • “Who done it”? Extreme Science Kid (Forensic Science), July 31-Aug. 4 (Ages 11-14): This course is a modern-day twist on crime scene investigation. Children will actively engage in data collection, observation, analysis and problem-solving while performing a fun interactive group-style investigation. Using crime scene activities, books, and investigations children will learn life skills and most of all learn to love STEM education the Extreme Science Way.
  • Say It Loud!! Extreme Science Kid (Great Debaters), Aug. 7-11 (Ages 13-16): This special course gives children a voice to debate topics of interest while exploring the fundamentals of respectful insightful conversation. Children will learn critical thinking skills, respectful dialog, research techniques, and fact-checking tips for making valid thought-provoking points that may help change the world around them.

All programs except for Airbrushing and Create Mobile Apps, which are free, cost $189 to enroll and run from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Space is limited. Parents are responsible for providing lunch. 

For more information and to sign up online, visit stcc.edu/explore/summer-programs. For questions, contact Lidya Rivera-Early, director of Community Engagement, at (413) 755-4787 or email lmearly@stcc.edu.

About Springfield Technical Community College

STCC, the Commonwealth's only technical community college, continues the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory with comprehensive and technical education in manufacturing, STEM, healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. STCC's highly regarded workforce, certificate, degree, and transfer programs are the most affordable in Springfield and provide unequaled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1967, the college – a designated Hispanic Serving Institution – seeks to close achievement gaps among students who traditionally face societal barriers. STCC supports students as they transform their lives through intellectual, cultural, and economic engagement while becoming thoughtful, committed and socially responsible graduates.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jim Danko, (413) 755-4812, jdanko@stcc.edu