‘Imiloa, friends team up for STEM education

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‘Imiloa Astronomy Center teamed up with the Hawaii Science and Technology Museum and Mokupapapa Discovery Center to deliver Science is Everywhere, a science camp from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. March 20-24 at ‘Imiloa this spring break for students in grades 2-6.

‘Imiloa Astronomy Center teamed up with the Hawaii Science and Technology Museum and Mokupapapa Discovery Center to deliver Science is Everywhere, a science camp from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. March 20-24 at ‘Imiloa this spring break for students in grades 2-6.

In this first collaborative effort between the three STEM-based organizations, students will enjoy learning about marine science, entomology, engineering, astronomy and botany, and be mentored by members of the award-winning Keaau Middle School Robotics Team that qualified for the VEX IQ World Championships in Kentucky in April.

“We want the camp to be as hands-on as possible,” said Christian Wong, director of the Hawaii Science and Technology Museum, a local nonprofit that provides STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) educational outreach programs. “The kids love getting their hands dirty — that’s how they learn. We wouldn’t have it any other way.”

‘Imiloa Director Ka‘iu Kimura initiated the idea of having the three organizations work together to deliver an outstanding educational experience, and what she hopes is the first of many collaborative efforts between the three.

Justin Umholtz, the education coordinator for Mokupapapa Discovery Center, will guide the students through squid dissections during the camp in what will be a very squishy and slimy introduction to marine biology and science.

The science camp will take place at venues throughout the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center.

Registration materials are available online at imiloa.org and hawaiisciencemuseum.org or available for pick up at ‘Imiloa’s front reception area. The cost of the camp is $225 for ‘Imiloa members or $250 for nonmembers.