The Adams State University College Migrant STEM Academy hosted 20 students from five Colorado regions. The residential three-day academy included courses in computer science, earth science, biology, and visits to the planetarium.
The Adams State’s Title V STEM program collaborated with Tomas Mejia, State Migrant Program director, Esmeralda Martinez, SLV BOCES Migrant Education director. Marcella Garcia, project director for Adams State’s Title V STEM program, said the first-ever event was a tremendous success. She said a plan is in place to host a week-long academy in the summer of 2016.
Garcia said the Adams State faculty including Dr. Rob Benson, professor of earth science; Dr. Robert Astalos, professor of physics; Dr. Kristy Duran, associate professor of biology; Dr. Matt Steffenson, assistant professor of biology; and Dr. Comfort Cover, assistant professor of Management Information Systems, led students on a journey of discovery and provided culturally responsive STEM activities for students. Garcia heard a faculty member say, "These students were exceptional, so respectful and open to learning STEM content."
The Colorado Migrant Program recruited the students for the Adams State Migrant STEM Academy. Requirements included at least a 2.5 grade point average; expressed interest in mathematics, science, engineering, or technology; a written essay; recommendation by a school educator; demonstrated leadership experience, and plans to attend a post-secondary program.
