At The STEM Connection (TSC) we believe all youth should have an opportunity to experience STEM principles through nature. Our programming sparks interest and awareness of STEM in everyday life. We strive to create a safe place for exploration and mastery, inspiring youth to understand and respect their connection to and interdependency with the natural world while participating in new experiences.

Moore Road Farm is the primary location for TSC programming. In this setting, youth explore STEM principles and develop problem-solving skills as we bring together unique outdoor spaces – river, forest, fields, and garden – with facilitated hands-on learning. Programs combine a deep understanding of academic standards and learning modalities, with a commitment to experiential learning and inquiry. We collect data to inform our understanding of who participates in programs, how they are being impacted, whether standards are being met, and what we can do to improve.

Knowledge of STEM principles and inquiry-based skills are highly valued in today’s work environment. And, while the workforce entering careers in STEM is becoming increasingly diverse, there continues to be a significant opportunity for improvement. At TSC we are passionate about coming alongside those under-represented in STEM careers and connecting youth to future opportunities in STEM or STEM-related fields. Our urban location is just a short distance from some of Indianapolis’ most diverse communities. The public schools in northwest Indianapolis are majority BIPOC and at least half of the students in these districts are considered economically disadvantaged.

At TSC, we are committed to demonstrating in practical ways what it means to take care of yourself, take care of others, and take care of our earth. In all experiences offered by TSC, we seek to ensure that everyone has a sense of belonging. Our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility guides our approach to programming and partnerships.

STEM leaders of the future need to be creative problem solvers who are curious and understand connections; they will be life-long learners willing to try, fail, and try again. This is the kind of leadership TSC seeks to inspire.

Emerging STEM Educators Workshop

by The STEM Connection