High school and middle school students are invited to explore science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) through hands-on exhibits March 30 at Central College. The free iExplore STEM festival is 6-8 p.m., with registration at 5:30 p.m. in Douwstra Auditorium.
At 6 p.m., Central College President Mark Putnam will make a special announcement to all guests.
After the introduction, students will go to Graham Conference Center to explore hands-on activities. Parents will remain in Douwstra Auditorium to learn about STEM education and career opportunities from a panel of experts, including professors, students and professionals. Parents will be able to rejoin students and explore exhibits before the festival ends.
In Graham Conference Center, Central faculty and students will help guests explore roller coasters, windmills, bubbles, stretching, electricity and sound. Vermeer, 3M and Pella Corp. will present an air vacuum and hydraulic pump exhibit, and the University of Northern Iowa will invite students to participate in a casting demonstration. The festival is sponsored by the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, Central College and Partnership for Excellent Educational Resources for STEM (PEERS).
STEM festivals are being held throughout Iowa to get kids excited about learning. Encouraged by the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, festivals are designed to challenge students with STEM activities and allow families to meet STEM professionals and explore career options.
The same day as this event, state leaders will examine Iowa STEM programs at the 2015 Statewide STEM Summit in Des Moines. Business and industry leaders, school administrators, elected officials, educators and more will meet 8:45 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center to discuss ways Iowa students can receive the best STEM education possible.
