STEM Programs and Resources for K-12 Students

Summer Camp - Boston Nature Center

2012-03-08T04:45:00.000-08:00

Summer Camp at Boston Nature Center

Set against 67 acres of a beautiful wildlife sanctuary, the Boston Nature Center (BNC) day camp provides a unique nature experience right in the middle of the city! Every day is filled with hands-on/minds-on experiences, outdoor exploration, gardening and many other exciting camp activities. We have an experienced and caring staff that creates a safe, inclusive and fun atmosphere.
The Sanctuary includes trails, meadows, forests, gardens and beautiful indoor space at the George Robert White Environmental Conservation Center.
Camp Offers:

A safe environment with a high staff to child ratio
Ten one-week sessions for 5 to 13 year olds
Four one-week sessions for 14 to 15 year olds
Volunteer opportunities for 16 year olds
Drop off between 8:30 am – 9:30 am & Pick-up between 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Extended day options
Weekly field trips
An Open House for families every Friday Afternoon

The Boston Nature Center Camp must comply with regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and be licensed by the local Board of Health. You may request copies of BNC’s policies regarding background checks, health care, discipline, and grievances.
Join our wonderful camp community that blends the traditional camp experience with a high quality science education!
Download the 2012 Summer Camp Brochure Summer Camp - English (PDF 1.5 MB)

Summer Camp - Spanish (PDF 1.5 MB)
2012 Leaders in Training program, ages 14-15 (PDF)

2012 Summer Camp & School Vacation Week Registration
Please Read:

Camp & Vacation Week Information and Policies (PDF)
2012 Weekly Themes (PDF)

Please print and submit these registration forms for 2012:

BNC Registration Form (PDF)
Camp Health and Waiver Forms (PDF)
Community Agreement (PDF)
Financial Aid Application (PDF)

More Information

Contact Phone: 617-983-8500
Contact Email: bnc@massaudubon.org

Mailing Address:

Boston Nature Center
500 Walk Hill Street
Mattapan, MA 02126

Enter the 2012 Google Science Fair

2012-03-06T05:36:00.000-08:00

Have you asked a question today? What did you do with it?

Did it take you somewhere new? Did it bring you here?

The Google Science Fair is an online science competition seeking curious minds from the four corners of the globe. Anybody and everybody between 13 and 18 can enter. All you need is an idea.

Geniuses are not always A-grade students. We welcome all mavericks, square-pegs and everybody who likes to ask questions. Simply upload your project here to win some life changing prizes.

Everyone has a question. What’s yours? http://www.google.com/events/sciencefair/index.html

February Vacation Opportunities

2012-02-16T09:25:00.000-08:00

School Vacation Week at the MIT Museum!

The MIT Museum is offering STEM focused activities every day of the week for kids and families this vacation week (20 - 24)! All are free with the price of admission ($8.50 for adults, $4 for kids or students, 5 and under are free).

Monday: Come participate in Gears and More - an exploration of mechanical engineering from 10 am - 12 pm, and then a demonstration by MIT Motorsports from 1 - 4 pm!

Tuesday: There will be a Paper Skyscraper Challenge from 10 am - 12 pm, and then a demonstration by MIT's Electric Vehicle Team from 1 - 4 pm!

Wednesday: Come and try your hand in the Straw Rocket Challenge from 10 am - 12 pm, and then see a demonstration by MIT's Rocket Team from 1 - 4 pm!

Thursday: Participate in the Mind the Gap Engineering Challenge from 10 am - 12 pm, and then see a demonstration of the Paradiso Synthesizer, the "world's largest electronic music synthesizer" and also learn about polymer particles for type 1 diabetes from 1 - 4 pm!

Friday: Try out the Marble Run Engineering Challenge from 10 am - 12 pm, and then see demonstrations by IRobot, Kiva Systems and the Paradiso Synthesizer from 1 - 4 pm!

For more information, check out http://web.mit.edu/museum/programs/programdescriptions.html#feb2012

School Vacation Week at the Museum of Fine Arts

The MFA has free admission for all students during the vacation week, and are running a number of free art programs Tuesday 2/21—Saturday 2/25, 10 am—4 pm! There are guided tours of the museum, painting and sculpting workshops, and story time! You can even build your own model of a museum! There will also be performances by the Revels Repertory Company of “An American Journey”, a play about immigrants in the early 1900’s and their journey to America.

To see all the programs, visit http://www.mfa.org/programs/series/cogan-family-foundation-vacation-week-adventures

"A Model of a Good Time" February School Vacation Week

Visit the USS Constitution Museum at the Charlestown Navy Yard this break to participate in hands-on gallery programs, practice caulking, or waterproofing, a ship, learn to write using an old quill pen, and enjoy tons of other activities! Also make sure to stop by the 33rd Annual Ship Model Show, and see over 50 handcrafted model ships of all types!

The museum is open 10 am - 5 pm, and for more information, call 617-426-1812!

Boston Centers for Youth and Families

For even more vacation ideas and activities, check out the Boston Centers for Youth and Families website. They work with the city of Boston to bring you tons of great options for your break!

http://www.cityofboston.gov/bcyf

STEM Summer Opportunities

2012-02-01T12:41:00.000-08:00

Youth to Health Careers Mentoring Program

Boston Area Health Education Center is looking for students ages 13 - 18 interested in a career in the healthcare industry. Students will be paired with mentors in the field and work on academic skills, career development, leadership qualities and also just having fun. Students should expect to commit about four hours per month. For more information call 617-419-3402, visit www.mayorshealthline@wordpress.com or email lmika@bphc.org.

Camp Cardiac

Camp Cardiac is a week-long summer camp for students ages 15 and up interested in medicine. Participants will get the chance to learn from and talk to experts in the field. Scholarships and applications are available now at www.campcardiac.org or 617-659-0246.

Boston Architectural College Summer Academy Open House

Boston Architectural College is hosting a four-week design exploration program focusing on architecture. Interested high school students should attend the open house on February 11 from 10 am - 12 pm at Boston Architectural College to learn more details and scholarship information. Visit www.the-bac.edu/summer or call 617-585-0101 to learn more.

Summer Job Opportunities and Tips for Teens

2012-02-01T09:52:00.000-08:00

Apply to the HOPELINE to be considered for employment with the Boston Youth Fund. Teens ages 15 to 17 are eligible to apply - must be 15 by July 8 and under 18 through August 17. Registration is open 24 hours a day from February 1st to March 2nd. See www.bostonyouthzone.com/byf or call 617-635-4204 for details and application information.

ABCD Summerworks is accepting applications for summer employment. Applicants should be between the ages of 14 and 21 and Boston residents interested in getting work experience. Registration opens February 1st, call 617-348-6548 for details and visit www.summerworks.net to apply!

Boston R.O.C.K. IT!!! Launch into Summer is for anyone interested in learning about the opportunities for youth this summer. All Boston residents are welcome, and those under 12 should be accompanied by an adult. This event will take place at Emmanuel College from 11 am to 1 pm on February 22.

Want Help with Your Job Search, Resume or Interviewing Skills? If you attend a BPS high school, contact your Private Industry Council (PIC) Career Specialist at www.bostonpic.org!

Call the Mayor's Youthline for questions about job opportunities in the Boston area, and check out www.BOSTONavigator.org!

BPL Job & Internship Fair: Teens looking for a job or internship should visit the Jobs & Internship Fair at the BPL. Feb 11, 12-3pm. Mezzanine Conference Room, BPL Copley Branch. Call 617-859 - 2334 or visit www.bpl.org!

Ship Model Show: USS Constitution Museum

2012-01-31T12:41:00.001-08:00

The 30th annual Ship Model Show will be on display at the USS Constitution Museum in Charlestown from Saturday, February 4 - Sunday, March 24! See over 100 models built by over 30 men and women. There will be several prize categories, including most popular, so cast your vote!

There will be free family focused activities open to the public, and hands on events and presentations during the school vacation in February.

Call 617-426-1812, ext. 146 or visit http://www.bostoncentral.com/events/exhibit/p7351.php for more information.

2012 Kavli “Save the World Through Science & Engineering” Video Contest

2012-01-26T07:43:00.000-08:00

Do you think we can save the world through science and engineering? Join hundreds of the world’s leading scientists, engineers, thinkers, and innovators as we tackle mankind’s greatest challenges and help to build our future.

The Kavli Foundation is challenging Grades 6-12 students across the world to brainstorm and share their ideas! This year's contest theme is inspired the National Academy of Engineering's Grand Challenges. The NAE recently asked some of the world's leading technological thinkers to identify what needs to be done to make people and our planet thrive.

Students worldwide are invited to submit entries to the 2012 video contest, with cash awards and prizes for the top entries. The best videos will be shown at the Festival Expo during April 27-29, 2012, where hundreds of thousands of science fans are expected to gather in Washington, D.C. The first place winner will also receive a travel stipend to attend the Expo.

Visit http://www.usasciencefestival.org/2012festival/contests/kavli-video-contest to enter!

Summer research for HS students - Young Scholars Applications Now Available

2012-01-23T09:03:00.001-08:00

The Young Scholars Program (YSP) is an intensive six-week summer research program at Northeastern University that offers future scientists and engineers a unique opportunity for hands-on experience while still in high school. Students work in active research laboratories alongside faculty and graduate students from the Colleges of Arts and Sciences and Engineering. Through seminar series, weekly field excursions, career counseling, homeroom presentations, and access to university facilities, students explore potential STEM careers and get a real taste for college life. The program is open to Boston area applicants who have completed either their sophomore or junior year in high school. It is a highly selective program, in which hundreds apply and less than 30 are accepted each year.

Please click here for the 2012 application.

The deadline for submission is March 20, 2012.

For more information on YSP, please visit http://www.neuysp.weebly.com/ or contact youngscholars.neu@gmail.com with questions.

Free Boston Events and Opportunities

2012-01-03T11:46:00.000-08:00

EVENTS

MFA Open House: Visit the Museum of Fine Arts on MLK Day for free admission for all! Children are also invited to pick up a copy of the book, “Greek Gods and Heroes” at the Huntington entrance while supplies last. Jan 16, 10am-4:45pm. 465 Huntington Ave. www.mfa.org

KEEP HEALTHY

Seasonal Influenza Shots: Annual outbreaks of the seasonal flu usually occur during the late fall through early spring. Protect yourself by getting the flu shot. The Public Health Commission will be posting locations that offer free vaccinations. Visit www.bphc.org/flu to find a location near you.

AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAMS

Boston Centers for Youth & Families After School Programs: The BCYF Program Guide for 2011-12 is available online. Find programs from winter through summer for all ages including homework help, GED, basketball, volleyball, yoga, chess, computer class and more. Contact your local community center for more information. 617-635-4920, www.cityofboston.gov/bcyf

Youth to Health Careers Mentoring Program: The Boston Area Health Education Center is looking for students who are interested in pursuing a career in health. Mentors will work with students in everything from academic support and career exploration to leadership development and just having fun. 4 hours a month. FREE. Ages 13-18. 729 Mass Ave, 2nd floor, South End. 617-419-3402, lmika@bphc.org

The Record Co: TRC offers teens an in-depth look at audio production and professional record-making. Sign up for a FREE class to learn how to make beats, use microphones, and what it takes to create a high-quality recording. Classes are taught by young audio professionals in working commercial recording studios. Apply now. Classes begin Jan 23. 960 Mass Ave. 617-334-5098, www.therecordco.org

The Steppingstone Foundation: Take part in a free program that is designed to prepare Boston school children for educational opportunities and BPS exam schools, independent schools and college. Grades 4-6. Deadline: Jan 3. 617-423-6300, www.tsf.org
INTERNSHIPS & JOB HELP

Year Up Paid Internship: Year Up is an intensive one-year training program for young adults ages 18-24 who have graduated high school or have their GED. Interns provide Fortune 100 companies like Merrill Lynch, American Express, and Bank of America with information technology entry-level talent. Deadline: Jan 12. 617-542-1533, www.yearup.org

The "Bank of America Charitable Foundation Student Leaders" Program: Currently seeking young motivated leaders to be part of its summer internship program. Students will learn how they can help shape their communities. Must be a high school junior or senior. Deadline: Jan 25. Application: www.bankofamerica.com/neistudentleaders

Boston PIC: A Private Industry Council Career Specialist can help you build your resume, improve your interview skills, match you to job shadow opportunities or connect you to a job. BPS high school students should visit their PIC Career Specialist at their school. 617-524-5224, www.bostonpic.org

SCHOLARSHIPS

Torch Scholars Program: Torch scholars receive full tuition, fees, and room and board scholarships for its Summer Immersion Program and eight subsequent semesters of undergraduate study. For students who have persevered despite difficult family situations, cultural barriers, and financial challenges. If you know a young person who may qualify, nominate her/him by Jan 15. www.northeastern.edu/torch/nominate

Yawkey Scholar Program: This program helps talented and motivated disadvantaged young people meet the rising costs of undergraduate education. A 4-year renewable scholarship is provided to high school seniors in MA planning to attend private colleges in MA. Awards average $12,500/year. Deadline: Feb 15. www.tpi.org/resources/yawkey_scholars_program.aspx

All information courtesy of Boston Youth Zone (http://www.bostonyouthzone.com/)

The 2012 Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge is officially OPEN for entries!

2012-01-03T11:22:00.001-08:00

Students in grades 5-8 can enter today for a chance to win $25,000, a trip to 3M's global headquarters to work alongside leading scientists, and the coveted title, America's Top Young Scientist.

Ten finalists will have an exclusive opportunity to work directly with a 3M scientist during a summer mentorship program. Each pair will connect virtually and work through an original project that the finalist will present at the final event in October.

Follow these 3 easy steps to enter:
1. Parents submit an online consent form at www.youngscientistchallenge.com.
2. Parents fill out a registration form and choose a username/password.
3. Students login to upload a quick 1-2 minute science video about a possible solution to an everyday problem.
For video topic guidelines, tips from previous winners and more, visit www.youngscientistchallenge.com.

Encourage your middle school student to enter today!

Questions? Email us at YSC@discovery.com

Looking for things to do over the Winter Break?

2011-12-16T09:51:00.000-08:00

Open the images below to see a short listing of local activities and events happening during the school winter break!

Offerings include:
-The Museum of Science new exhibits!
-Theater shows
-sports programs
-Links for students to enjoy science games!
-First Night Boston FREE events
-and a listing of upcoming events

Enjoy your Holiday break by having fun while learning!

If you have a hard time viewing this and/or have questions, email the Center for STEM Education at: stem@neu.edu

National STEM Video Game Challenge

2011-12-05T10:39:00.001-08:00

The 2012 National STEM Video Game Challenge is launched in partnership with Digital Promise, a new initiative created by the President and Congress, supported through the Department of Education. The initiative is designed to unlock the promise of breakthrough technologies to transform teaching and learning.

Categories for middle school and high school students.

What are the different Challenge Entry Streams?
Individual Entries:

Written game design documents
Games made with Gamestar Mechanic
Games made with Gamemaker
Games made with Kodu
Games made with Scratch
Games made with any tool (Open Platform)
Educational games made with any tool (PBS KIDS Stream) (Learn More, PBS KIDS Stream Rules)

Team Entries:
Make a game about any topic using any game creation tool. Limit of four (4) youth per team.

What are the prizes for each Entry Stream?
Each individual winner and each member of a winning team will received an AMD-powered laptop computer with game design and educational software.
Each winning entry will also earn an award of $2,000 for your school (or the non-profit organization of your choice)!

SPLASH at MIT and BC - Programs for students in Grades 7 - 12

2011-10-24T10:08:00.001-07:00

Forwarded from our colleagues at MIT ..

Greetings from the Educational Studies Program at MIT!

http://esp.mit.edu/learn/Splash/index.html

It's that time of year again: registration for Splash 2011 is opening soon! Have you ever wanted to take a class about...

- How to Have a Crushing Grip
- Moral Relativism in Comic Books
- Elevator Science
- Weird Atoms and Strange Photons
- Introduction to Zombie Defense
- Advanced Lightsaber Dueling
- Carbon Chauvinism
- To Infinity and Beyond! The History of Pixar
- The Great Lego Challenge: A Hands on Introduction to Engineering Design

...or any of 400 other awesome topics? If so, then Splash is the program for you! Splash will be running November 19th and 20th, the weekend before Thanksgiving, on MIT's campus.

Program Vitals:
What: A weekend in which you can take multiple classes on a huge variety of subjects.
When: The weekend before Thanksgiving. In 2011, Splash will be held on November 19 and 20.
Who: Students in grades 7-12
Cost: $30.
Where: On the MIT main campus.

Registration for Splash will open on October 25th at 8 pm. The class catalog will be available at http://esp.mit.edu/learn/Splash/2011/catalog/ shortly before then. **Don't panic** if you can't see the catalog well in advance of registration opening! This year, classes are once again being scheduled by a lottery system to ensure that the process is as fair as possible. Preferences will be accepted until November 2nd; all preferences received before then will be treated exactly the same. It is strongly encouraged that you take your time and pick the classes in which you are most interested. For more information about the lottery, go to <http://esp.mit.edu/learn/Splash/studentregFAQ.html>. After the lottery results are released on November 6th, first-come-first-serve registration will open on November 7th and remain open until November 13th. For more information, go to http://esp.mit.edu/learn/Splash/studentregFAQ.html.

If you have any more questions about MIT Splash, feel free to email us at splash@mit.edu.

In addition to MIT's Splash, Splash will be held at Boston College on Sunday, November 13th! Come to The Heights to take a diverse selection of classes all taught by passionate BC undergraduates. Immerse yourself on BC's campus, connect with the undergraduates, and learn about something that would never be offered at your high school. BC's liberal arts classes range from "Political Structures and Policies in the World of Harry Potter" to "Egg Timer Art History" to "Entrepreneur State of Mind". BC Splash is free for all high school students and course registration is open now! For the complete course catalog and more information on how to sign up, you can visit the website at <http://bcsplash.learningu.org>, or reach them by email at bcsplash@gmail.com or phone at 617- 297 - 7524.
https://bcsplash.learningu.org/

We look forward to seeing you at Splash!

The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) for High School Students

2011-10-20T10:20:00.000-07:00

About SEAP

http://seap.asee.org/

The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) provides an opportunity for students to participate in research at a Department of Navy (DoN) laboratory during the summer.

The goals of SEAP are to encourage participating students to pursue science and engineering careers, to further their education via mentoring by laboratory personnel and their participation in research, and to make them aware of DoN research and technology efforts, which can lead to employment within the DoN.

SEAP provided competitive research internships to 245 high school students this year. Participating students spend eight weeks during the summer doing research at approximately 20 DoN laboratories.

The online application closes on January 6th, 2012.

STEM Programs MA Dept. of Education

2011-10-19T04:34:00.000-07:00

MA STEM Initiative

Programs

http://www.massachusetts.edu/stem/programs.html

National Fossil Day

2011-10-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Earth Science Week

Explore the amazing prehistoric world of fossils including trilobites, dinosaurs, Ice Age mammals, and other creatures.

Discover how fossils form and investigate fossilized bones, teeth, claws, and footprints.

Fossil Day is offered as part of Earth Science Week, encouraging people everywhere to explore the natural world and learn about the geosciences.

Wednesday, October 12 from 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

Harvard Museum of Natural History: 26 Oxford Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138

http://www.bostoncentral.com/events/learn/p21700.php

AIA-Museum of Science Archaeology Fair

2011-10-04T06:17:00.000-07:00

The archaeology fair is an event that features archaeologically themed programs and interactive activities for the whole family, free with a Museum of Science admission this weekend. Activities are created and presented by archaeologists, educators, and other specialists.

This is your chance to dig into the past! Here are some highlights of many participating organizations:

Boston National Historical Park
Digging up the Past: Come have a hand at “Archaeology in a Box!” Participants will use archaeological tools and methods to “excavate” artifacts as though they were on a real dig.

Diablo Glass School
Glassblowing: Come to an outdoor demonstration and watch an interactive exposition with the tools and materials used to blow glass!

Franklin Pierce Anthropology Club
Learn to Throw an Atlatl: Come learn about the history of the atlatl and how it was used in the past. Watch a demonstration of the power of this throwing tool, and even get a chance to try it out yourself!

Joe Bagley - Flintknapper
Flintknapping—The Art and Science of Stone Tools: Come see the ancient art of making stone tools! A hands-on display will feature modern arrowheads and other stone tools, and there will be live demonstrations of flintknapping throughout the day.

Legio III Cyrenaica
Roman Living Historians: Come see a display of accurate reconstructions of Roman Legion artifacts and equipment, some of which you can handle and even try on! Learn how to march and maneuver like a Roman soldier, and listen to a lecture describing the life of a man in the Roman army. Even have your photo taken with a Roman soldier!

9:00-2:00 Friday 10/7
10:00-3:00 Saturday 10/8

Free with Museum of Science admission

1 Science Park, Boston, MA, 02114, 617-353-9361

NU Engineering Visit Options for High school students

2011-09-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

Engineering Wednesdays
Every Wednesday is Engineering Wednesday at Northeastern (except December 28, 2011). This "mini" open house for prospective undergraduate engineering students and their families is an engineering-specific information session followed by a tour of the College of Engineering led by one of our students. It is an opportunity to learn about our academic programs, cooperative education, support services, and the admissions process. It’s also a great time to see our facilities, meet other faculty and staff, and get your questions answered.

Wednesdays 10:30 AM in 110 Behrakis Center (Admissions Visitor Center) The program will last approximately two and a half hours. Many attendees also choose to take a general campus tour on the same day. Registration is NOT required.

Open Houses
Two open houses are scheduled for October 8th and November 12th. These days are designed for prospective undergraduate students and their families. Representatives from Admissions, Financial Aid, and the Colleges (including each of the engineering departments) will hold information sessions. Families will have the opportunity to tour the campus and talk with engineering students, faculty, and staff. Registration for the Open Houses will be available on the Admissions website by mid-September.

For more information, please e-mail Rachelle Reisberg at r.reisberg@neu.edu.

Women In Engineering Day - 10/28/11
Women in Engineering Day is an all day event for high school girls and their parents to find out more about our program. This year it is scheduled for Friday, October 28, 2011. The day starts out with a Welcome Continental breakfast, several information presentations, and a student panel of engineering women ready to answer all of your questions. Over lunch, meet our Admissions, Financial Aid, and Residential Life staff. The afternoon includes visits to our engineering research facilities with lots of fun activities. The day ends with an optional campus tour. To reserve a spot, please e-mail Rachelle Reisberg at r.reisberg@neu.edu by October 17th.

Building Bridges
A day for high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors to learn what engineering is all about. Students choose from a menu of hands-on interactive activities led by our engineering faculty and students from each of our departments. The next "Building Bridges" will be held on December 2, 2011. For more information, please e-mail Richard Harris at rharris@coe.neu.edu.

Franklin Park Forest Fall Festival

2011-09-27T08:14:00.001-07:00

Saturday, October 1st from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Enjoy FREE outdoor activities for all ages in scenic Franklin Park. You can climb a tree, borrow a bike for a park tour, join a family nature hike, and forage for wild edible plants.

1:30 and 3:00pm: Family nature hikes & activities with Boston Nature Center educator
4:00-6:00pm: Fall foraging edible plant walk with local naturalist, Pam Kristan
1:00-4:00pm: Tree Climbing with Boston Area Recreational Climbers

For more information: http://www.bostoncentral.com/events/fair/p22073.php

Weekend Events!

2011-09-22T06:09:00.000-07:00

Check out these exciting opportunities below:

Smithsonian Magazine's "National Free Museum Day" - Saturday, September 24

Event Information: http://www.bostoncentral.com/events/artsculture/p3108.php

Participating Museums: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/venues/

Rappin' with Raptors Festival - Saturday, September 24, 1-4 p.m., Mattapan

Event Information: http://www.bostoncentral.com/events/rappin_raptors_festival/p12477.php

Welcome back to school / September Resources!

2011-09-01T07:49:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is that time of year again; it’s “Back – to – School” season!

The Boston youth zone (bostonyouthzone.com) has sent out information in their newsletter for September and Back to school resources!

Here are a few below to point you in the right direction if you have any questions about the new school year!

Links for back to school tips:

Welcome Back from the Boston Public Schools!: Check out www.bostonpublicschools.org/welcome for information about starting the school year. Access the school calendar, important documents, and more.

Back-to-School Parent Hotline: Call for help with school assignments, transportation, and other back-to-school questions. Open weekdays through Sep 16, 7am-6pm. 617-635-9046

Boston Public Schools Calendar: Remember important dates, school vacations and more. Do not forget that school starts on Sep 8 for grades 1-12. www.bostonpublicschools.org/district_calendar

Boston Centers for Youth and Families After School Programs: Visit your local community center to find out about after school programs and fall activities. 617-635-4920, www.cityofboston.gov/bcyf

Links for tutoring and homework support tips:

Homework Assistance Program (HAP) at BPL: Students in grades K-8 can get free after-school homework help in all subject areas at any library branch. Academic support and mentoring is also available. Assistance is provided by high-achieving high school mentors. Starts Sep 12, Mon-Thurs 3:30-5:30pm. Sat hours vary by branch. 617-859-2382, www.bpl.org/homework/index.htm

Boston Teacher’s Union Tutors: Students in all grades can receive homework help and tutoring from Boston Public School teachers. Tutoring starts the week of Sep 26 at Boston Public Library branches from 4-6pm. Days vary by branch. bchaney863@aol.com, www.bpl.org

Project D.E.E.P Tutoring: Dorchester students in grades 5-8 can receive one-on-one help with their homework, projects, and reports in any subject by signing up at the Leahy-Holloran Community Center on Sep 24. Students will meet with tutors for 90 minutes throughout the year with a one-time $50 registration fee. beth@projectdeep.org, www.projectdeep.org

If you found some of these links helpful, feel free to sign up for the newsletter and receive monthly information from the Boston Youth Zone for you and/or your child!

Just visit: http://www.cityofboston.gov/subscribe/ to sign up for the free newsletter!

DISCOUNT DEALS at Boston Museums for youth!

2011-09-01T07:26:00.000-07:00

Are you ever looking for something to do with your child afterschool or on weekends? Here are a few places that offer good deals to get you into exhibts and have fun!
1. The Children’s Museum has Dollar days where every Friday sponsered by Target it only costs $1 to get in to the museum (5-9pm) and allow your children to explore every floor!
For more information about the Museum and to plan a visit go to their website.

2. If you like learning about culture and Arts (and maybe take a class, or just visit!)The Museum of Fine Arts offers discounted deals during non-school hours where you can get your child (kids age 7-17) in to the museum for FREE (weekdays after 3 pm, weekends, Boston public school holidays) *Note: general admission otherwise is $7.50 and kids under 6 are always FREE.
To learn more about the location and what the Museum of Fine Arts offers please visit their website!

MIT Middle School and High School 2011-2012 Programs!

2011-08-10T09:12:00.000-07:00

Two programs at MIT that your students can apply to attend! Follow the information below:

(1) If your student plans on taking AP courses at their High School, try looking into MIT's Delve program where they prepare students to succeed in those classes:
DELVE
Registration for Delve 2011-2012 will run to Sep 10, 2011. Student registration will close Sep 10, 2011
Program Vitals:
- What: Advanced Placement (AP) preparation classes
- When: Year-long (9/18/11-5/6/12), Sundays 10:00-3:00pm; lunch 12:00-1:00pm
- Who: Students in grades 9-12 during the 2011-2012 school year
- Cost: $250, plus $150 deposit for books. Generous financial aid is available.
For more information and to find out how to apply, follow this link:
http://esp.mit.edu/learn/Delve/index.html

(2) If your student enjoys learning about subject areas such as: mathematics, literature, science, arts, sports, and more, than take a look at MIT's Splash 2011 One weekend program!
SPLASH 2011
Registration will open in late October.
Program Vitals:
- What: A weekend in which you can take multiple classes on a huge variety of subjects.
- When: The weekend before Thanksgiving. In 2011, Splash will be held on November 19 and 20 (from 9:00 am - 10 pm on Saturday and 9:00 am to 7:00 pm on Sunday, with lunch from 12 - 2 pm on both days. Check-in will open at 8:00 am both days. Classes are held on MIT’s main campus)
- Who: Students in grades 7-12
For more information follow the link below (More information about Splash 2011 will be posted on the website in September):
http://esp.mit.edu/learn/Splash/index.html

Back-to-School Jamboree: Saturday, August 27, 2011

2011-08-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

Amazing event for Families and Students!

Back-to-School Jamboree
Date: Saturday, August 27, 2011
Starting Time: 10:00 a.m.

Mayor Thomas M. Menino, the Boston School Committee and Superintendent Carol R. Johnson

will host the 3rd annual Boston Public Schools Back-to-School Jamboree on Saturday, August 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on City Hall Plaza.

The event will feature live performances, health screenings, community resources, activities, prizes and more.

If you are a vendor and would like to participate, please download the application form here.

Finish time: 3:00 p.m.
Office Telephone: 617-635-9660
Email: b2sjamboree@boston.k12.ma.us
Directions: http://www.cityofboston.gov/contact/directions.asp
Event Type: System-Wide Event
Location: Boston City Hall Plaza
United States
See map: Google Maps or Plan trip using MBTA Public Transit

Free Events During the Cambridge Science Festival April 30-May 8

2011-04-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

The Cambridge Science Festival, the first of its kind in the United States, is a celebration showcasing Cambridge as an internationally recognized leader in science, technology, engineering and math. A multifaceted, multicultural event every spring, the Cambridge Science Festival makes science accessible, interactive and fun!

Events take place all over Cambridge, at the Museum of Science, MIT, Harvard and more. Check their website for more information!

Summer Camps - PBHA Camps for children from Boston and Cambridge

2011-04-13T06:44:00.000-07:00

Camps
PBHA’s Summer Urban Program is a set of 12 student-run summer camps for children in Boston and Cambridge. Each summer, approximately 150 college students work in these communities. Serving over 800 youth, the summer programs are structured into mornings of curricular, classroom-based enrichment and afternoons of field trips in and around Boston.

Each camp uses the city as a classroom without walls, and the summer culminates in final trips and a show. An essential element of the summer program is community partnership; teens who are often former campers are hired as junior or senior counselors and directors, and parents and community leaders play an important role in working with the program. Many camps have been operating in their neighborhoods for decades.

http://programs.pbha.org/sup/camps-2/

SUP Camps

Camper Applications -

http://programs.pbha.org/sup/camper-applications/

Boston Refugee Youth Enrichment
Cambridge Youth Enrichment Program
Chinatown Adventure
Franklin I-O
Keylatch Summer Program
Mission Hill Summer Program
Native American Youth Enrichment Program
Refugee Youth Summer Enrichment
Roxbury Youth Initiative
South Boston Outreach Summer

The ARTEMIS Project -FREE computer science 5 week summer program at Boston University for rising 9th and 10th grade girls

2011-04-11T11:14:00.000-07:00

The Artemis Project is a free, five-week computer science summer program for rising 9th and 10th grade girls. Artemis introduces participants to the creative thinking and problem-solving skills that are at the core of computer science. The program was founded in 1996 at Brown University and we are very excited about launching the first program in Boston this summer.

Artemis sparks the interest of girls by making fundamental topics in computer science fun and engaging, incorporating lessons with hands-on activities as well as real-world applications. In Providence, Artemis has taught the girls how to design their own websites in HTML/CSS, build and program robotics, and create games using programming languages such as Java, Python, Scheme and Visual Basics. Sample conceptual topics included introduction to search and sort algorithms, cryptography, artificial intelligence, circuits, and recursion through Towers of Hanoi. We hope that students will leave Artemis with both the practical skills and the conceptual background that will help them succeed.

The program will be held in Boston University's Photonics Center from June 27 through July 29, 2011 M-F from 9:00-4:00. For more information and to apply, please visit the program website at here.

New England Resource Directory

2011-04-11T11:10:00.000-07:00

New England Resource Directory
The New England Resource Directory provides information to students, advisors and administrators on outreach efforts, internships and science-related programs at New England educational institutions, and biomedical and biotechnology organizations. The directory describes non-degree programs sponsored by high schools, colleges, universities, professional and graduate schools, hospitals, private industry, foundations and government agencies.
http://www.bscp.org/resourceDirectory.asp

Submit a Video by Friday, April 15 for a Chance to Win $25,000

2011-04-05T06:04:00.000-07:00

There are 12 days left to submit a video in the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge. Upload your child's video by Friday, April 15 for their chance to win $25,000, the title of "America's Top Young Scientist," once-in-a-lifetime trips, and much more!

Need more info before you click submit? We're here to help! There's still time to put together a winning video entry: read through this year's video topics for all the guidelines, download a video checklist, or join a free webinar to get insider tips from the 2010 grand prize winner.

Encourage your child to finish their video... and enter today!

Microsoft STEM career event for female high school juniors and seniors

2011-04-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

Microsoft New England would like to invite junior and senior high school women who are interested in pursuing careers in science, engineering and technology to an afternoon discussion this Thursday, April 7 from 3-4pm at Microsoft NERD Center in Kendall Square, Cambridge with Maria Klawe, Microsoft board member and president of Harvey Mudd College in California.

With Maria’s passion to increase the number of under-represented groups in STEM, she will be hosting a special talk for female undergrad and grad students in science and tech as well as mature HS juniors and seniors. She will discuss her career path, opportunities and challenges as a female in STEM and advice for success.

Registration details here.

Summer Opportunities from the City of Boston

2011-03-30T10:49:00.000-07:00

Boston R.O.C.K.S!!! - Summer Recreational Opportunities for City Kids

BPS Summer Stuff Resources - When school's out for the summer, it's important for families to select fun, safe, healthy, educational activities for their children. The documents and links on this page are designed to help Boston families find programs and services to keep children active during the summer months.

Boston Centers for Youth and Families - summer programs

Student Competitions

2011-03-21T11:47:00.001-07:00

Student Competitions

Disney's Planet Challenge

This week, Disney announced the launch of the second annual Disney’s Planet Challenge, a free project-based environmental and science competition for classrooms nationwide. Formerly open to 4th through 6th grade classrooms, Disney’s Planet Challenge is being expanded to include two tracks: one for elementary schools grades 3–5, and another for middle schools grades 6–8. The middle school curriculum will offer an increased focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education.

Developed in collaboration with NSTA and the K–12 Alliance, the Challenge offers students the chance to use their imagination and creativity to help the planet while giving educators a fresh new way to motivate students with the help of an educationally sound curriculum that meets national and state guideline requirements.

The national grand prize winning elementary school class will enjoy a celebration at Disneyland® Resort while middle school national winners will earn a $20,000 grant for their school. Both grand prize–winning classrooms will be illustrated and appear within a Marvel comic book. Winning teachers will receive a one year NSTA membership. The grand-prize winning educators will also receive an expense-paid trip to the national 2012 NSTA conference where they will be recognized at the NSTA awards banquet.

For more information or to enroll in the program, visit www.Disney.com/planetchallenge. Enrollment is open through December 17, 2010.

Rubber Band Contest for Young Inventors

Are you ready to stretch your imagination? The Akron Global Polymer Academy of The University of Akron is hosting the third annual Rubber Band Contest for Young Inventors to encourage students in grades 5–8 to demonstrate their creativity and ingenuity by creating an invention that incorporates the use of rubber bands.

There will be two separate divisions of competition—Arts & Leisure and Science & Engineering. Four finalists will be brought to Akron, Ohio, where the first place winner and runner-up in each division, will be announced at an awards ceremony on May 14, 2011.

The first place winner in each division will receive a $1,000 savings bond, while the runner-up in each division will receive a $500 savings bond, respectively. The top eight semifinalists who are not chosen as finalists will each receive a $50 gift card. The top four schools with the most entries will each receive a $250 donation. For more information about the contest, visit the website.
http://rubberbandcontest.org/

Siemens We Can Change the World Challenge

Earlier this month, NSTA, the Siemens Foundation, and Discovery Education announced the kick-off of the third annual Siemens We Can Change the World Challenge, a program that educates, empowers and engages students and teachers nationwide to become “Agents of Change” in identifying and solving environmental problems. The third year of this national sustainability challenge—now expanded to include high school students—encourages all students, from kindergarten through twelfth grade, to team up with their classmates to create replicable solutions to environmental issues in their schools (grades K–5), community (grades 6–8) and world (grades 9–12).

Over 13,000 students competed in the 2010 Challenge across elementary and middle school grades. Projects ranged from reducing lunchtime waste to saving local trees and encouraging eco-friendly gardens. The grand prize team, “No1Idling” from Novi, Michigan, focused on reducing community pollution by raising awareness about the environmental impact of vehicle idling among area drivers.

Student and teacher/mentor prizes, which vary according to grade level, include savings bonds, school grants, exciting trips and much more. The deadline for all entries is March 15, 2011. Finalists and winners will be announced in April 2011 and the national winners will be announced in May 2011. For more information, visit www.wecanchange.com or www.facebook.com/wecanchange.

School Vacation Programs Guide!

2011-02-28T11:55:00.000-08:00

Download the School Vacation Programs Guide now, for opportunities for February, Spring and Summer breaks!

The Science of Baseball - Summer Program - MIT (Rising 8th/9th Grade Boys)

2011-02-23T14:08:00.000-08:00

We are currently accepting applications for the 2011 session of MSBP. Boys who will enter the eighth or ninth grade in the fall of 2011 and who live and attend public school in Boston or Cambridge, MA are invited to apply.

New applicants: please download the application via either link below, fill it out completely, and mail it back to our office with supporting materials. If you have any questions, please call Kate Youmans at 617-324-4340.

Boys who participated in the 2010 session of MSBP may re-apply for 2011. To receive a returning student application, please contact Kate Youmans at 617-324-4340.

Applications/additional information - http://web.mit.edu/msbp/To_Participate.html

STEM Proram at MIT - Boston/Cambridge/Lawrence Public Schools

2011-02-15T05:51:00.000-08:00

http://mit.edu/stem/Participate.html
STEM Program at MIT! The Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) Program is a year-round academic enrichment opportunity provided free of charge to talented middle school students who want to get ahead in math and science.

During the summer, STEM offers a five-week Summer Institute on MIT’s campus for students entering sixth, seventh, eighth or ninth grade. Taught by MIT undergraduates, the Summer Institute courses combine lectures, projects and experiments to support learning. Participants learn college-level material, get to play a racquet sport, take field trips to places like the Museum of Science and meet some very interesting people.

During the academic year, STEM offers a nine-month Mentoring Program, which matches each of our middle school participants with an MIT student mentor, who shares similar interests. One Saturday each month, the mentors and mentees gather on MIT’s campus for brunch and a series of structured and unstructured social and academic exchanges.

Applications - http://mit.edu/stem/Participate.html

Whitehead Spring Lecture Series for High School Students

2011-02-15T05:47:00.000-08:00

http://www.wi.mit.edu/programs/student/index.html

Whitehead Spring Lecture Series for High School Students

The Whitehead Spring Lecture Series for High School Students offers students an opportunity to learn about cutting edge topics in biomedical research. The three-day program, held over spring vacation, features lectures from leading scientific experts, laboratory demonstrations, visits to local biotech companies, and opportunities to meet with young Whitehead scientists.

Students in grades 9-12 are welcome to attend. Registration for the series opens in March and is first-come, first-serve.

Submit a 1-2 minute video and you could win $25,000 and be named America's Top Young Scientist

2011-02-04T06:48:00.000-08:00

Who Will Win $25,000 and Be Named America's 2011 Top Young Scientist?

The Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge
is officially open for entries!

Students in grades 5-8 can enter today for a chance to win: $25,000, a trip to 3M's global headquarters to work alongside leading scientists, and the coveted title, America's Top Young Scientist.

Each of the ten finalists will have an exclusive opportunity to work directly with a 3M scientist during a summer mentorship program. Each pair will connect virtually and work through a fun, original project that the student will present at the final event in October.

Follow these three easy steps to enter:

1. Parents submit an online consent form at www.youngscientistchallenge.com.
2. Parents fill out a registration form and choose a username/password.
3. Students login to upload a quick 1-2 minute science video about a possible solution to an everyday problem.

For video topic guidelines, tips from previous winners and more, visit www.youngscientistchallenge.com.

Google Science Fair

2011-01-11T10:10:00.000-08:00

Google is putting on a virtual science fair, and anyone 13-18 years old can participate by creating a video or slideshow about their experiment. The winner gets a 10 day trip to the Galapagos Islands! The deadline is April 4.

Check out the webiste here for more information and to watch a really cool intro video.

Boston Youth Environmental Network

2011-01-05T06:55:00.000-08:00

4th Annual Environmental College & Career Fair for Youth
February 22, 2011 at the Curry Center at Northeastern University
http://www.environetwork.org/default.aspx

Contact: Helen Christou, Network Weaver, Youth Employment at
hchristou@environetwork.org for more information on this event and other program offerings.

MIT - SPARK

2011-01-05T06:35:00.000-08:00

Program Vitals - http://esp.mit.edu/learn/Spark/index.html

What: A Saturday in which you can take multiple classes on a huge variety of subjects.
When: March 12, 2011.
Who: Students in grades 7-12
Cost: $20.
Registration: Registration for Spark 2011 is likely to open sometime in mid February 2011.
Courses: View the 2010 (OLD) course catalog.
Where: On the MIT main campus.

Spark is a short program designed to give our students the opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects. MIT students and community members teach a variety of classes, from urban orienteering to mathematics to Chinese brush painting, and everything in between! Spark runs one Saturday in early spring. Registration is done online on a first come, first served basis, and begins a few weeks before the program. Starting on registration day, you will be able to register for Spark through this website.

If you have any questions, please click contact to send us a message or email us at esp-spark@mit.edu. Financial aid is available for all of our programs on a need-based basis. You can apply for financial aid when registering for our program.

MIT - SATPREP - Registration Open in January

2011-01-05T06:32:00.000-08:00

SATPREP REGISTRATION WILL OPEN IN LATE JANUARY. DATES WILL BE POSTED HERE ONCE THEY’RE FINALIZED. IF YOU HAVE AN ESP ACCOUNT, YOU WILL RECEIVE AN EMAIL AS SOON AS THIS INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE.
Create an account at http://esp.mit.edu/learn/index.html to receive information directly.

Program Vitals
What: Test preparation for SAT I
When: Spring and fall semesters on Sundays from 1:30PM to 5:00PM for 10 weeks. Fall SATPrep 2010 runs from September 12th to November 28th.
Where: On MIT’s main campus.
Who: Students in grades 9-12
How: Registration for Fall 2010 SATPrep is now closed. Spring 2011 SATPrep registration will open sometime in January (a definite date has yet to be determined).
Cost: $100 which can be paid in cash or by check. Generous financial aid is available!

Young Scientist Challenge

2011-01-04T07:09:00.000-08:00

http://www.youngscientistchallenge.com/

The 2010 competition is now closed. Sign up to receive information about the 2011 competition.

Overview
The Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge is the premier national science competition for students in grades 5 through 8. The Young Scientist Challenge is designed to encourage the exploration of science and innovation among America's youth and to promote the importance of science communication. In 1999, Discovery Communications launched the competition to nurture the next generation of American scientists at a critical age when interest in science begins to decline. In 2008 3M joined forces with Discovery Education in a quest to nurture the next generation of American scientists with an innovative and interactive science program open to every middle school student in America. Over the last ten years, more than 600,000 middle school students have been nominated to participate in the competition, and winners have gone on to speak in front of members of Congress, work with the nation's top scientists, and pursue academic careers in the sciences.

How To Enter
In order to enter, students must be in grades 5 through 8, and must submit a video entry online.

Students will be challenged to create a one- to two-minute video about a specific scientific concept which they will select from a list of concepts provided by YSC judges.

Video entries must demonstrate the student's understanding of the scientific concept explained and should also exhibit his or her comfort level discussing science in general.

Videos do NOT need to be "produced" or have high production value. Judges are not evaluating production skills. Videos may be recorded on cell phones or simple digital cameras, for example. In addition, local libraries and schools may be able to loan cameras to students.

Videos will be screened to determine whether they meet all entry requirements and will then be presented to a panel of online judges.

Video entries will be due in May 2011.

Over the summer, judges will review the video submissions and choose up to 51 semifinalists: one from each state and the District of Columbia.

The Finals
In the fall, 10 finalists will receive an all-expense-paid trip to the competition finals, consisting of a series of scientific challenges designed for students in grades 5 through 8.

Finalists will be judged on their scientific problem solving and communication skills.

Prizing
At the end of the competition, America's Top Young Scientist will be awarded $50,000 in U.S. savings bonds (a $25,000 cash value), and other finalists will receive exciting prizes.

Sample prizing for winners include:

Semifinalists (up to 51 - one from each State and the District of Columbia)

Cash Prize
Plaque/certificate
YSC Premium

Finalists (10 - chosen from the Semifinalists)

An all-expenses- paid trip for the student and ONE parent/guardian to competition finals
Cash prize
Medal/plaque/certificate
A chance to win various prize trips (in the past we've sent students to Space Camp, on a trip with Rangers at a National Park, etc.)

First Place

$50,000 in U.S. Savings Bonds (Cash value $25K)
A trip to 3M's World Headquarters