Youth in Central Lincoln County (CLC) will have increased opportunities to engage in out-of-school time activities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) as the mid-coast region has been identified as the next hub to be developed through MMSAs NSF-funded STEM Guides project.
What this means for the community is access to an embedded, enthusiastic and knowledgeable STEM Guide who will help connect youth, ages 10-18, with fun and interesting STEM resources. Were interested in developing models to involve youth more deeply in STEM-related activities, particularly reaching those who have a strong interest but are currently not engaged in an activity, says Lynn Farrin, Lead STEM Guide in the CLC Hub. “We’re starting by talking with youth, educators, parents, and community members about what they see as the best ways to make these connections to increase youth involvement in STEM in this area.”
Central Lincoln County is the third STEM Hub, or region of focus, of the STEM Guides project, now in its second year. The first two STEM Hubs are in the Dover-Dexter-Guilford and Blue Hill-Deer Isle regions. The project focuses on rural youth ages 10-18.
Highlighting and expanding existing STEM resources in the CLC area is a key component of the STEM Guide work. This involves project partners, including 4-H and local libraries, and draws upon national models such as Teen Science Cafe and others.
Farrin, a former area middle school teacher who grew up in Nobleboro and currently resides in Jefferson, has a both a passion for sharing STEM activities with youth and a lifetime of knowledge about the rich resources in the community that shes eager to share! A launch to introduce the NSF-funded STEM Guides project to the region is being planned for December.