Getting our students ready for the futur

Getting our students ready for the future

According to the US Department of Education, "All young people should be prepared to think deeply and to think well so that they have the chance to become the innovators, educators, researchers, and leaders who can solve the most pressing challenges facing our nation." The Garden City Friends of STEM (GCFS) have been working hard to help our Schools meet this challenge by promoting and supporting programs in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).　 As they gear up for their second year, GCFS has plans to build upon the accomplishments of their inaugural year.

In year one, GCFS launched a community education program: "STEM Talks: Student to Student" talk series featuring student guest speakers who helped advise other students and parents on the numerous opportunities to study and work in STEM-related fields. Through a generous donation GCFS was able to donate two 3-D printers to Garden City High School. The 3-D printers led to the creation of Club Enable to help the engineering class win first place in a national competition that focused on the manufacture of mechanical hands (prosthetics) for children in need. GCFS is proud to support Garden City High School’s new robotics club, which will be competing for the first time this year in regional Vex competitions beginning this Fall. GCFS Board Member, Dr. Ed Lancevich, has been working closely with the school and club, will be assisting the coach this season. 　

In order to help parents better understand the large scope and accessibility of engineering, GCFS sponsored an engineering presentation at Parent University given by Dr. Ann Marie Flynn, Chair of the Chemical Engineering Department at Manhattan College. To raise STEM awareness, and showcase the Middle School FLL Robotics Teams, GCFS hosted a "Revel for Robotics" fundraiser at Revel Restaurant.　The event was a big success and already on the calendar for year two.　 GCFS Awarded $500 scholarships each to two deserving Garden City High School seniors, Alicia Cristoforo and Dessie DiMino for their academic accomplishments in STEM as well as for demonstrating core values of mentoring others and giving back to the community. GCFS hopes to be able to double the number of scholarship awards this year.

To support 5th and 6th graders who would like to compete in FLL competitions, GCFS awarded three $500 gifts ($1,500 total) to three parent-led community First Lego League robotics teams to enable them to purchase the necessary equipment.

GCFS is inspired by The GC School District’s commitment to STEM and hopes to build upon existing programs and create new opportunities for the students and community. There are big plans for the coming school year, but GCFS needs the continued support of the community to help deliver strong, competitive programs for our students. Please join, renew your membership, or make a donation via PayPal.