The Home Page Network

On today’s broadcast, Home Page Correspondent Johanna Vogt spotlights the Don Gill Elementary School’s STEM Program. This exciting and educational feature shows students working with Dash robots! The students learn basic computer programming, coding, specific math skills, and team communication as part of an essential skill set for problem-solving. You will see both the Dash robots and the students in action as you watch today’s feature.

Johanna also had the opportunity to visit with Rachel Smith, Volunteer STEM Teacher/Engineer and Melina Moyer, Volunteer STEM Teacher/Scientist regarding the STEM Program and its benefits to the students.

Engineer Smith explains that there are usually three to four kids in a group. The students then work together listening to everyone’s ideas before executing plans for their robot. Rachel said that it has been really fun but also a challenge for the students involved. One of the enormous differences between a STEM class and a regular math class, for example, is the application component. Kids working together hands-on, being creative and coming up with solutions to problems prepares students to be excellent problem solvers in the future.

Scientist Moyer explains how the scenario facing the students on today’s broadcast reveals a double challenge. First, coming up with a way to program the robots to get the trash out of a lake. And, secondly to then program the robots to get the trash to the recycle center. It sounds easier than it looks but these students found a way! And, they learned a lot in the process.

During the second half of today’s feature, Johanna talks with some of our little scientists and engineers. One of the students said, “that it was a very long and hard operation that they had to do. And, even though it was funny, it was hard.” You won’t want to miss the kid’s interviews on this fun and informative broadcast.

The strength of STEM is that it makes learning fun and ignites communication between the students. And, because of this, the children enjoy creating solutions to problems. Their mindset completely changes because they expect to have fun and conquer the task. The essential quality that Engineer Smith and Scientist Moyer integrate into their classroom is teamwork. The children learn to work off of each other’s strengths, communicate through a problem, and come up with a solution together.

Engineer Smith and Scientist Moyer also want to thank Steve Adams. He has been an incredible support to the STEM Program. Being able to come into the classroom during and after school has been an incredible blessing – not just for the kids, but also for the teachers.

The STEM Program is entirely community funded. If you want to donate to STEM, you can send your funds directly to the PTO.
10 Sherman Street
Wellsboro, PA 16901

If you have any questions about the STEM Program, contact Steve Adams at (570) 724-1811.