Spring STEM outreach is off to a busy start at Clarkson University’s Beacon campus. In May, 400 Hudson Valley students in 5th and 6th grades are coming to the shores of Denning’s Point for river science and ecology lessons through the Hudson STEAM program. “Combining STEM and environmental science with the arts, these field trips aim to create authentic connections between students and the Hudson River,” said Brigette Walsh, assistant director of environmental programs.
Clarkson’s Beacon campus is located within Denning’s Point State Park, a 70-acre nature preserve located 60 miles north of New York City on the river. Staff and seasonal educators at Clarkson’s Beacon Institute, supported and managed by the Institute for STEM Education, have reached over 1,200 students and public visitors this academic year via field trips, school fairs, class visits, community science programs and public events.
Students from Newburgh and Beacon public school districts have the opportunity to experience the ancient native tradition of river seining to catch live fish from the Hudson River. They also identify fish using a dichotomous key, hike through nature trails and create nature-inspired artwork. Clarkson educators have also reached over 700 students at career and earth day fairs, and in-class visits. The outreach team attended Peekskill Middle School’s career fair to showcase STEM and environmental science careers and highlight pathways into the fields.
For the second year, three Clarkson Undergraduate student interns will support in-person spring field trips to Beacon campus, and will continue through the summer helping to run TEAM (technology, environment, art and media) Science and other summer camp programs. Undergraduate interns receive training in the ecology of the river and park preserve, and help conduct community science and educational programs.
To learn more about Beacon campus programs, contact Brigette Walsh at bwalsh@clarkson.edu.
https://www.clarkson.edu/news/beacons-hudson-steam-program-reaching-400-students-may