Kids STEM University combines learning with fun

Hands-on free event Saturday at Kent State Salem is open to all area students grades preschool through fifth grade

SALEM -- Area students in grades preschool through fifth grade can spend Saturday at Kent State University's Salem campus for some fun, hands-on learning in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math.

Known as Kids STEM University, the free event for students and their families takes place from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. featuring a variety of activities being presented by local exhibitors, including robotics, 3D printing, coding, chemistry and even getting a look inside a specialized vehicle used by area crime fighters.

"STEM Education is so much more than just teaching Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. STEM is about engaging students in their education and giving them the opportunity to explore, create and share," John Dilling, a part-time consultant with the Columbiana County Educational Service Center said in an email.

The ESC and the university are partnering to present the program which gives business and industry a chance to show students how their math, science and technology skills matter after graduation when they enter the workforce, whether straight out of high school or after skills training or even college.

He said it's important for them to see the real world applications for what they're learning.

"We thought it would be a good idea for young students to see what's available in Columbiana County," Dilling said.

He explained that Kids STEM University is a by-product of the Columbiana County Business Advisory Council, which includes all county superintendents and representatives from all areas of business and industry. He said in an email that some of the discussion in early meetings centered on how everyone "can work together to strengthen our educational system and better prepare our students for the workforce."

Dilling said employers are saying they need workers who show up on time, drug-free, who can work well with others, who display ethical behavior and know the meaning of teamwork. Some of those same types of skills can be learned through STEM. He noted that Ohio Means Jobs will be on hand and said "it's never too early for parents and students to start having those conversations" regarding career and what's needed to reach their goals.

Letters were sent out to students in area schools about Kids STEM University, including all Columbiana County schools and South Range, West Branch and Sebring. Letters and notices were also sent to potential exhibitors who were asked to provide a hands-on engaging activity plus materials for attendees to complete the activity. The Salem Hot Dog Shoppe is providing a free lunch.

"It's going to be a good day," Dilling said.

Dilling previously served as director at the Columbiana County Career & Technical Center and as superintendent at Crestview. Several programs from both the ESC and the university will take part by presenting activities.

The list to date of exhibitors for the Kids STEM University includes Ohio Means Jobs, Resources for Parents, Dickey Electric, ESC Preschool, Columbiana County Gifted Education, Tucker Trucks, OSU Extension Office, Alphaport (engineering firm Cleveland), ESC Math Programming, Columbiana County Career Center--Landscape and Environmental Design, Davey Tree Company, Humtown Products, Project Inspire (3-D Printing & Robotics), Family and Children First Council & Coordinated Action for School Health Coalition, Columbiana County Career Center--Vet Tech Program, Beaver Creek Wildlife Center, Kent State University-radiology technology, horticulture, early childhood education and nursing programs, Columbiana County Drug Task Force, Cub Scout Pack 3, Salem Public Library, ESC Science Programming, Columbiana County Health Department, Barnes & Noble and Leetonia Fire Department.

Sponsors for the programming to date include Humtown Products, Williams & Case Insurance Agency, Straub Insurance Agency, Butech Bliss and Heritage Thermal Services.

Dilling said they're still accepting sponsors and exhibitors. For information, call him or Marie Williams at the ESC at 330-424-9591.

mgreier@salemnews.net