# January STEM Opportunities for Youth: Join Us!
At STEM from Scratch, we are dedicated to highlighting thrilling STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) prospects each month for young individuals. This January, we have compiled a selection of remarkable programs that encourage students to investigate, innovate, and create! Whether your interests lie in engineering, programming, robotics, leadership, or practical science experiments, you will find something valuable here. Discover some fantastic opportunities listed below!
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## 1. I-STEM Program
**Location**:
– Aldershot High School (Burlington)
– T.A. Blakelock High School (Oakville)
– Elsie MacGill Secondary School (Milton)
**Overview**:
The Integrated STEM (I-STEM) program encompasses a four-year high school curriculum (Grades 9–12) tailored for students keen on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Applications are accepted during Grade 8, with admissions conducted via random selection.
**Key Features**:
– Cultivate essential abilities in engineering design, innovation, and leadership.
– Focus on fostering creative and critical thinking aimed at addressing global issues.
– Specialized STEM-centric courses, including I-STEM Math and Integrated Project-Based Learning.
– Annual program fee: $200.
**Learn More**:
🔗 [I-STEM Program Information](https://www.hdsb.ca/learning-and-resources/Pages/Secondary%20Education%20and%20Pathways/I-STEM.aspx)
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## 2. Halton Hills Public Library STEM and Arts Programs
**Location**: Halton Hills, Ontario
**Overview**:
The Halton Hills Public Library provides an array of STEM and arts programs for children of various ages, featuring exciting disciplines like animation and robotics/programming.
**Key Features**:
– Programs are usually organized into 8-week sessions.
– Offered four times annually, providing numerous opportunities to participate.
– Local public libraries frequently host additional STEM-related initiatives — check with your nearest branch!
**Great for**: Kids eager to delve into STEM through imaginative and interactive experiences right in their community.
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## 3. Chamelea Science Centre
**Location**: Toronto (accessible to Vaughan and Markham)
**Overview**:
The Chamelea Science Centre makes science engaging for young learners aged 3–12 through thrilling, hands-on workshops and programs.
**Key Features**:
– 8-week sessions with one-hour classes each week.
– Flexible scheduling accommodates busy families.
– Price range: $100–$300 for various offerings.
– Children can take home their projects crafted during class.
**Great for**: Young scientists who enjoy hands-on, project-oriented learning in physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering.
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## 4. Carnegie Mellon’s Open Learning Initiative (OLI)
**Mode**: Online/Remote Learning
**Overview**:
Carnegie Mellon University’s Open Learning Initiative (OLI) provides budget-friendly online courses for independent learners, including high school students, in areas such as programming, life sciences, and mathematics.
**Key Features**:
– Course fees range between $10 and $80 (average around $25).
– Choose from topics like Computer Science, Life Sciences, Mathematics, and Logic.
– Self-paced learning enriched with interactive activities, multimedia tools, and assessments.
– Application required — dates and specifics may differ per course.
**Learn More and Apply**:
🔗 [Carnegie Mellon Open Learning Initiative](https://oli.cmu.edu/independent-learner-courses)
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## 5. Girls Who Code
**Mode**: Virtual | Open to students globally
**Overview**:
Girls Who Code is a non-profit organization dedicated to dismantling barriers for women and non-binary individuals in STEM and technology sectors.
**Programs Offered**:
– **Clubs Program**:
– Virtual and complimentary.
– For Grades 3–12 (divided into Grades 3–5 and Grades 6–12 groups).
– Commitment of 1–2 hours weekly after school or on weekends during the school year.
– Open to all proficiency levels, from novice to advanced.
– **Summer Programs**:
– Virtual, free, and available to Grades 9–12 students.
– Concentration on beginner to intermediate coding abilities.
– Flexible scheduling options.
– Grants available (U.S.-only).
**Learn More and Apply**:
🔗 [Girls Who Code Programs](https://girlswhocode.com/programs)
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## Why Participate?
Engaging in STEM activities offers numerous advantages for young individuals:
– Enhance problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
– Discover exciting career paths.
– Connect with peers and professional mentors who share similar interests.
– Foster leadership, creativity, and innovation skills.
– Equip oneself for success in an ever-evolving, tech-oriented world.