Rising freshmen with an interest in STEM are encouraged to apply for the new Kalamazoo Math and Science Institute (KMSI), which will provide students with the opportunity to explore robotics, drones and 3D printing while earning a half credit in high school science.
KMSI is a partnership between Kalamazoo Public Schools and the Michigan Colleges Alliance (MCA), which is an organization that connects students to Michigan’s private higher education institutions and promotes college affordability and access to Michigan families.
The Kalamazoo Math and Science Institute will provide rising ninth-grade students with an opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) concepts during a four-week summer program and to increase their interest and awareness of career opportunities in STEM fields. Students work alongside mentors from MCA during the program, experiencing hands-on lessons and learning about their experiences pursuing STEM degrees in college.
In the summer of 2021, a week-long pilot of the program was conducted. Students had the opportunity to work with Spheros — programmable robots — and to learn more about collecting, recording, and analyzing data. A majority of the participants in last summer’s program said the program helped increase their interest in STEM fields.
The 2022 KMSI participants will have the opportunity to earn half of a high school science credit. The program will enroll up to 40 students, with an emphasis on registering KPS students who have demonstrated an interest in STEM fields and are looking to get a head start on their high school experience. The KMSI will be taught by KPS teachers and MCA mentors.
For more information about registering, contact Kristen Miller, the KPS interim coordinator of mathematics and science, at millerkm@kalamazoopublicschools.net.
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