AIR DATE JANUARY 13, 2022
Title: STEM Programs in Central Florida
In this episode, we explore STEM opportunities for youth in central Florida.
Guests and Locations
Orlando Science Schools, Elementary Principal – Michael Singleton
Orlando Science Center, President/CEO – JoAnn Newman
Exploring STEM Opportunities in Central Florida
STEM is an umbrella term for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Usually, these topics are grouped as one influences the other.
I set out to explore what STEM opportunities are available in the Central Florida area.
Hear from Michael Singleton- Orlando Science Schools Elementary Principal- and JoAnn Newman, the President and CEO of the Orlando Science Center.
Orlando Science Schools STEM Programs
Orlando Science Schools is a charter school system in Central Florida focusing on STEM. It is designed to teach K-12th grade students, but it is broken into two locations. One campus is strictly for K-6, and the other campus is 7-12.
“Orlando Science School, since 2008, always had a vision providing students the technology, the science, the engineering, the math that is needed in the workforce, and not just locally, but globally as well,” explains Michael.
One of the benefits of Orlando Science Schools is their accelerated program. This program is designed for students considered above average learners- particularly with math.
“That accelerated program starts as early as kindergarten, meaning that, as a kindergartner, they can start working on standards above what traditional schools map out for a school year,” he goes on.
They also have a full-time gifted program for students classified as gifted. Compared to other schools that only provide it once per week, they receive full-time gifted instruction.
The Orlando Science Schools focuses on providing STEM opportunities in Central Florida, making it significantly sought after. There are also 60+ after-school clubs that students can participate in.
Parents must be residents of Orange County to apply to Orlando Science Schools. And there is a long waitlist for acceptance. You can go to https://centralfloridastem.org/ to find other STEM opportunities available in central Florida.
Orlando Science Center STEM Programs
Everything at the Orlando Science Center is truly about STEM learning. From exhibits to events and beyond, it all comes back to providing STEM opportunities in Central Florida.
“We have our own preschool here at the Orlando Science Center. We’re in the 12th year of running the school, and we were the first STEM-based preschool in the region,” JoAnn proudly explains.
“We design and develop things specifically for various ages of school children, and we bring children onsite and deliver labs, and we also go offsite to many schools,” she continues.
But the fun isn’t just for the children. The Orlando Science Center also hosts adult science nights to reach all ages.
The museum itself reaches across four floors, each one featuring different exhibits and interactive spaces. You can browse Kid’s Town, which has five or six distinct zones.
Then make your way to the traveling exhibit, followed by the Makerspace, and then the observatory on top. You can also stop for a bite to eat at their café and grab a souvenir from the gift shop on your way out.
Single-day entry requires a general admission ticket purchased online or at the museum.
If you want to visit often, the best option is to purchase an annual pass. You receive free parking, discounts in the café and gift store, and early access to exhibits and fun events.
