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ROLLA, Mo. – Missouri 4‑H is partnering with Missouri University of Science and Technology to bring hands-on STEM learning experiences to thousands of youths across the state, with a focus on girls in rural, underserved communities.
The three-year initiative, supported by a $300,000 grant from the Henry Luce Foundation, will create five STEM day camp curricula for youths ages 9-12. Camps will be offered free or at very low cost to remove financial barriers to participation.
A team of Missouri S&T faculty and University of Missouri Extension Missouri 4-H professionals will collaborate to design curricula that integrate science literacy principles, hands-on activities, role model stories and assessment tools, said Jeff Chalfant, 4-H state specialist in STEM and assistant teaching professor at Missouri S&T.
The project builds on the successful development of the Space Camp curriculum supported by the Henry Luce Foundation Community Planning Grant and is designed to help youths, especially girls, develop a sense of belonging in STEM at a critical age, Chalfant said.
“Early exposure to authentic STEM experiences plays a big role in building girls’ confidence and interest in STEM careers,” he said. “Too often, girls in rural Missouri lack access to these opportunities that connect classroom learning to real-world applications and career pathways.”
STEM learning rooted in local experience
The project will develop five camp themes that reflect Missouri’s landscapes, industries and community needs:
- On the Farm will focus on agricultural science (biology and chemistry), mechanical and civil engineering, and robotics in agriculture.
- Digging Deep will explore mining engineering, geology, and environmental remediation.
- Science in Small Spaces will center on urban-style agriculture (hydroponics and container gardening) and other STEM fields (engineering, chemistry, energy)
- Sports Physiology will integrate nutrition, biomechanics, and data analytics.
- On the Range will explore conservation, wildlife biology, and the physics of shooting sports.
A modular design will allow camps to be offered as day programs, after-school activities or 4‑H special interest (SPIN) clubs.
Master Gardeners and MU Extension agriculture specialists will support several camp themes by sharing expertise in soil science, plant systems, irrigation, sustainability and food production, Chalfant said. Their involvement helps youths see how STEM is used every day in agriculture, gardening and natural resource management. Other community partners will include local nonprofits, veterinarians, state and national parks staff, and city and county governments.
Training 4-H professionals for lasting impact
At least 40 Missouri 4-H professionals, five in each of the state’s eight 4-H regions, will be trained to deliver the new camps. This train-the-trainer approach ensures the program can continue and expand beyond the grant period, Chalfant said.
Over three years, the project is expected to reach approximately 4,000 youths statewide, he said.
In addition to camp curricula, the project will produce facilitator guides, role‑model trading cards featuring women in STEM, and a digital curriculum app to support training and statewide access. Evaluation findings and curricula will also be shared nationally through 4‑H networks.
About the CBL STEM Community Grant
The Claire Booth Luce (CBL) STEM Community Grant program is supported by the Henry Luce Foundation, a private foundation that works to strengthen communities by advancing education, leadership and knowledge. CBL Community Grants support institutions and community partners working together to address structural and systemic barriers that limit girls’ and women’s participation in STEM fields.