Prairie STEM Education and Partnerships During a Pandemic
Omaha STEM Ecosystem (OSE) and UNO STEM TRAIL have been instrumental in helping Prairie STEM in all aspects of our work in STEM integration for PreK-12 students to understand their greatest value. From roundtable discussions leading the way for community partners (equity and access in education) to connections with Ecosystem partners forming mentoring opportunities for students (Union Pacific, Kiewit, Olsson) to direct lines of communication with affiliate organizations when needing industry input (Clarkson College giving students hands-on, enriched learning using real-work technology and equipment in healthcare), the OSE has enabled and enhanced the work of non-profits like Prairie STEM in exponentially impactful ways.
Most recently, in direct response to the remote learning environment due to COVID-19, our partnership with UNO STEM TRAIL, OSE, school districts, and supporting foundations has facilitated the distribution of thousands of STEMkits to area students allowing for continued academic progress outside of school. While this doesn’t replace the benefits of in-person learning, the hands-on kits allow students and teachers to continue standards-based synchronous learning while in an asynchronous environment.
We believe a high tide lifts all boats and with OSE and UNO STEM TRAIL leading the way, Nebraska students are positioned to take full advantage of technology and STEM during a time when the rest of the country is still struggling to stay afloat. We’re thankful for our partners in education and industry where STEM enrichment and connected learning continues to be a game-changer because of the unique opportunity to collaborate with the University and STEM Ecosystem for the benefit of all students.
-Alan Wang, Executive Director Prairie STEM (Scott Technology Center Location)