EDforTech and Partners Bring STEAM Camp to Barrio Logan with the Logan Heights CDC

Fun and learning mixed together! The EDforTech Alliance, EDforTech Corporation, and CoderZ partnered to create a unique opportunity for Logan Heights Community Development Corporation in San Diego, CA. The Logan Heights Innovators Summer STEAM Camp was an interactive full-day camp over four weeks provided at no cost to San Diego Unified School District’s rising 2nd-6th graders. Funding was provided by the San Diego Foundation. Camp participants enjoyed an academic experience that blends the fundamentals of computer science and coding and robotics with reading and math in a fun way. Hands-on activities were enhanced with experiential field trips and workshops with local industry representatives from STEM-related careers. 

Logan CDC STEAM campers extracting DNA from strawberries. 

The photo above illustrates one of the hands-on activities the campers could participate in.  The campers learned about DNA from local industry leaders Illuminate, headquartered in San Diego.  Campers learned about DNA extraction protocol during a virtual field trip and practiced on strawberries. Part of our CTE work includes career exploration for the campers.  One of these career exploration opportunities was a visit with a Forensic Scientist from the Kern County Crime Lab. She talked about her journey as a Hispanic woman from South LA to graduating in Biochemistry, to the work she now does to support law enforcement. Campers became junior forensic scientists when they played a game called “Who stole my game controller and how do I identify the Culprit! During this game, they grappled with what DNA is and why it’s essential in forensic science. 

The STEAM camp culminated with a graduation ceremony on July 15th, where campers received Certificates of Award in Engineering Design and Computer Science from the University of California at San Diego Extension. Campers also earned a pre-college credit and now can see themselves as the next generation of engineers or scientists! The Logan CDC STEAM camp was one of 90 programs funded by the Foundation.  Out of the 90 funded programs, Logan Heights CDC STEAM Camp was 1 of 4 highlighted for the fantastic opportunity for the participating campers over the summer! Students are headed back to school with a new mindset! Are you looking for a STEAM camp for the winter break or summer?  Or would you like to integrate this learning experience into your school? Please contact us at 323-601-8231 or complete our partnership form here. Learn more at edfortech.org.

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