The 21st Century Community Learning Center at Govans, funded by MSDE and managed by Baltimore Curriculum Project, serves 90 low-income K-5 students four  days per week from 2:30pm - 6:30pm.  The program will improve student math and science achievement and adult literacy.  Students will participate in programs designed to reinforce the regular academic program including youth development, service learning, character education, violence prevention, civics education, art, music, recreation, and technology education.  The program will offer adult literacy instruction and monthly parent workshops.  By May 2018 BCP expects 80% of student participants to score proficient on state math and science exams and 80% of adult literacy students to obtain their GED.

 

On Thursday, February 18 students came together after-school to celebrate the wonders of STEM. They presented to faculty, parents and their peers what they have been learning throughout the semester.  Not only did they reveal the hard skills that they have learned but they demonstrated soft skills such as presenting to a group that are so important for success. 

Govans STEM students have been collaborating with their peers on a multitude of projects. Many have worked in teams to design and build cars, trucks and buildings. Other students studied the physics behind balloon rockets.  Some students enjoyed getting their hands gooey with the creation of slime!  

These students were so proud to display their products and their knowledge.  The energy in the room was exploding.  It truly was a celebration!

During the STEM celebration, students enjoyed racing their balloon rockets down the school hallway.  Students are learning about the thrust produced by the potential energy of the pressurized air in the ballon. They witness Newton's law of motion: 'For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction'. Introducing young students to the wonders of science and engineering at a young age opens up the world of STEM career opportunities.