From chemical reactions to slime platelets, a group of New Hartford Central School District students explored hands-on learning and unlocked new possibilities at the recent Girls in STEM event.
Staff from New Hartford Central School District, including education technology specialist Kathy Donovan and school counselor Bethany Truax, were proud members of the team that helped plan and coordinate the Girls in STEM event—an inspiring day of hands-on learning designed to engage and empower middle school girls in STEM fields.
The event was co-organized by Utica University and the New York State Master Teacher/Counselor Fellowship Program, with Dr. Terri Provost, science professor at Utica University, serving as the lead organizer. Additional support came from Utica University STEM professors and students, as well as Master Teacher Fellows from a regional Professional Learning Team (PLT) that includes educators from Whitesboro, Westmoreland, Camden, Utica, and Sauquoit. New Hartford Central School District is proud to have had Donovan and Truax representing the district in this collaborative effort.
Fifty-four girls from 18 local school districts participated in the April 12 event at Utica University. Students engaged in fun-filled interactive stations exploring biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, and physics.
“Exposure at a young age helps break down stereotypes and builds a sense of belonging in fields where girls are often underrepresented,” said Donovan, computer tech and literacy educator at New Hartford Senior High School. “By seeing female educators and university students leading the way, participants were able to visualize themselves as future scientists, engineers, coders, and innovators.”
Empowering Future Innovators
Now in its second year, Girls in STEM has evolved beyond a single event and has become the foundation of a growing initiative to empower young women in science, technology, engineering, and math. Through ongoing collaborations with educators, Utica University, and community partners, the initiative continues to expand, providing more students with meaningful experiences that highlight the limitless possibilities within STEM fields.
Collaboration and Connection
Through careful planning, collaboration, and expanded outreach, this year’s event strengthened connections between students, educators, university faculty, university students, and local STEM professionals. Utica University faculty members helped design interactive stations, while university students served as group leaders and teaching assistants, providing mentorship and enthusiasm. This collaboration ensured academic rigor blended with a peer-to-peer learning approach that resonated with the participants.
Participants explored creative and challenging activities such as Cool Chemistry, Slime Platelets, AI Generative Art, Candy Geology, and Math & Fashion Design, generating excitement and engagement.
“I didn’t know math could be this fun!” one student remarked during the fashion math activity.
Community partners, including the Science Center of Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES, The Authority Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Authority, and CNY Drones, hosted afternoon sessions to enhance the learning experience.