Program Description

Through ACEF's partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of East Central Alabama, the Boys & Girls Club STEAM Initiative provides STEAM enrichment services to students enrolled in summer camp at the local Boys & Girls Club. By connecting STEAM and literacy, the program seeks to positively impact cognitive development, increase literacy and math skills, and help students reflect meaningfully on their work and that of their peers. Participants engage in hands-on STEAM activities, including sports, travel, cooking, weather, and maps to build on students' STEAM knowledge. Content and related activities vary to relate to students' interests and familiarity with these topics to foster a better understanding of STEAM.

Program Objectives

1. Develop students' critical thinking skills by exploring and applying STEAM-based solutions to real-world problems experienced in society, locally and globally.

2. Encourage students to pursue studies in Science, Technology, Arts, Engineering, and Mathematics throughout their elementary, secondary, and post-secondary education, leading to a career in a STEAM field.

3. Provide access to STEAM activities for students living in underserved communities.

4. Through partnership with Anniston Community Education Foundation, the STEAM Enrichment program will provide STEAM enrichment services to students participating in the Boys & Girls Club afterschool and summer enrichment programs.