Categories: Louisiana News

GUMBO improving access to STEM in underserved communities

NATCHITOCHES, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — On Thursday, thousands of fifth and sixth graders visit Northwestern State University from 28 schools to gain hands-on experience in science, math, technology, engineering, and health (STEM).

Natchitoches State University students and faculties and several other organizations united to host several activities for young people, including a robotics challenge, math puzzles, chemistry and physics demonstrations, drone flight, and healthcare demonstrations. 

 The Cenla STEM Region 6 event, ‘Recipe for Rural STEM Day, ‘ mission to improve access to STEM education and close the gaps for underserved populations in Avoyelles, Catahoula, Concordia, Grant, LaSalle, Rapides, and Winn parishes.

“GUMBO is our acronym for Geographically United in Making Better Opportunities,” said Jennifer DePriest, Cenla STEM director.  Recipe for Rural STEM Day ignites curiosity, fosters a love of learning and introduces young minds to the possibilities that STEM careers offer, DePriest said. 

Rural STEM Day was hosted by LSU Alexandria and sponsored by Regions 3,6, and 8 LaSTEM center, with featured demonstrations by:

  • the Louisiana AgCenter,
  • Alexandria Zoo,
  • City of Alexandria Water Department,
  • Kisatchie National Forest,
  • Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital,
  • Central Louisiana Technical Community College
  • and several more business, industry, education, and healthcare partners.

Students were given take-home STEM kits with instructions for making soap dough and sugar scrubs, with explanations of the science behind the activities and how they relate to STEM careers. 

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