**STEM from Scratch: January Youth Opportunities**
As we welcome the new year, it’s an ideal moment for young individuals to delve into the field of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Here are some thrilling January opportunities brought to you by STEM from Scratch, designed to empower youth with expertise and abilities in STEM areas.
**1. I-STEM Program**
– Location: Aldershot High School (Burlington), T.A. Blakelock High School (Oakville), Elsie MacGill Secondary School (Milton).
– Eligibility: Students can apply in Grade 8 for a four-year program that spans Grades 9-12 through random selection.
– Focus: Cultivating engineering, design, and leadership skills while fostering creative and critical thinking with a global outlook.
– Fee: $200 each year.
– Courses: Encompass I-STEM Math and Integrated Project Based Learning, emphasizing STEM content.
**2. Halton Hills Public Library**
– Provides a broad selection of STEM and Arts programs, including animation and robotics/programming.
– Program Duration: Most programs run for 8 weeks and are offered four times a year.
– Encouragement: It’s worthwhile to check local libraries as they might provide similar STEM offerings.
**3. Chamelea Science Centre**
– Tailored for children aged 3-12 in Toronto, accessible from Vaughn/Markham.
– Format: 8-week sessions lasting 1 hour each; attendance is flexible.
– Fee: Between $100 and $300.
– Activities: STEM workshops and lessons led by qualified educators with a hands-on learning approach.
**4. Carnegie Mellon’s Open Learning Initiative**
– Target Audience: High school students.
– Program Cost: Varies from $10 to $80; most courses are priced at $25.
– Courses: Include a diverse range such as Computer Science, Life Sciences, Mathematics, and Logic, featuring interactive elements.
– Format: Remote learning with a flexible pace; application required.
**5. Girls Who Code**
– Location: Based in the USA, accepting applications from across the globe.
– Format: Virtual programs.
– Offerings:
– Clubs Program: For Grades 3-12, free, requires 1-2 hours per week.
– Summer Programs: For Grades 9-12, free, designed to accommodate various schedules with funding for U.S. students.
These initiatives cater to diverse age groups, skill levels, and interests, showcasing a commitment to dismantling barriers in STEM, particularly for women and non-binary individuals. Participating in these programs this January could serve as a fantastic starting point for youth to embark on their STEM journey.