STEM Academy
STEM Academy is a dynamic, multi-week learning experience for rising 6th–8th graders designed to spark curiosity and build confidence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Students can explore a range of hands-on STEM pathways including Math Foundations, Introduction to Robotics, Forces in Motion, and Advanced Engineering. Participants will design and build projects, strengthen math and problem-solving skills, and learn coding and engineering principles in an exciting collegiate environment. With supportive instruction and immersive activities, STEM Academy equips students with the skills they need for future academic success while fostering a lifelong love of STEM.
Students who are eligible for STEM Academy meet the following criteria:
- Rising middle school student (entering 6th–8th grade)
- Interested in hands-on exploration of robotics, physics, engineering, and math
- Want to strengthen math skills, build academic confidence, and prepare for pre-algebra (STEM Academy: Math Foundations)
- Ready to participate in collaborative, team-based activities
- May or may not have prior experience with robotics and coding
Session I: June 1 – July 18, 2026
STEM Academy: Math Foundations
Program Focus: Pre-Algebra & Core Math Skills
Overview
STEM Academy: Math Foundations is designed for rising middle school students who need a strong foundation in mathematics before transitioning into Pre-Algebra. Through hands-on activities, real-world problem-solving, and guided practice, students strengthen essential math skills while learning how to think like mathematicians.
This track is ideal for students who desire additional, individualized math support, need to build confidence in foundational math concepts, or are preparing for a pre-algebra course.
What Students Learn: Core middle school math concepts that strengthen numeracy skills and prepare students for pre-algebra coursework.
Learning Outcomes:
- Perform operations with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals with accuracy
- Apply ratios, proportions, and percent to real-world situations.
- Understand and use expressions, variables, and introductory equations.
- Use problem-solving strategies to approach multistep math tasks.
- Interpret and create graphs, charts, and basic data displays.
Session II: June 22 – July 10, 2026
STEM Academy – Robotics & Engineering
STEM Academy features rotating STEM themes—Introduction to Robotics, Forces in Motion, and Advanced Engineering—where students design and build LEGO robots, conduct hands-on physics and engineering experiments, and participate in engaging STEM field trips. Each week offers a unique focus that challenges students to think creatively, solve problems, and collaborate with peers. Families have the flexibility to enroll their child for a single week, any two weeks, or all three weeks to create a customized summer learning experience.
WEEK 1: Introduction to LEGO Robotics
Dates: June 22–26, 2026
What Students Learn
Mechanical design, basic coding, and sensor technology using LEGO SPIKE™ Prime.
Learning Outcomes
- Build and program a basic robot
- Use motors and sensors to control movement
- Apply coding concepts (loops, conditionals)
- Collaborate to design, test, and improve builds
WEEK 2: Forces in Motion
Dates: June 27 – July 2, 2026 (Saturday, Monday-Thursday)
What Students Learn
Newton’s Laws of Motion through hands-on experiments exploring movement, balance, and the forces that shape our world.
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the relationship between force and motion
- As a team, conduct experiments and gather data
- Apply the scientific method to analyze results
- Communicate findings effectively
WEEK 3: Engineering the Future – Advanced Robotics
Dates: July 6–10, 2026
What Students Learn
Advanced robotics using LEGO SPIKE™ Prime with a Robotics and Engineering partnership through Xavier University, focusing on engineering design and real-world challenges.
Learning Outcomes
- Design & program complex robotic systems
- Apply the engineering design process
- Innovate and collaborate on real-world solutions