All these STEM Academy-Interactive experiences are led by top-notch Jesuit High School and St. Francis students (with full adult supervision.) 

Astrophysics Camp

Grade 6-8, Co-ed (6/26 – 6/30 AM)

• 9:00a – 12:00p
• $160

Description

Astrophysics and Astronomy is a course about space stuff: planets, stars, galaxies, and the universe. Students will participate in a variety of experiments to learn about astrophysics concepts and will learn about astronomy by creating hands-on dioramas. We’ll talk about what a black hole really is, the biggest explosions in the universe, and its microscopic beginnings. Instructors will teach safe ways to view solar eclipses, and the kids will learn about the true scale of the universe by creating a scaled down model. Students can count on discussing the future of our universe, zero-gravity, Jupiter’s big red spot, and more!

Psychology & Neuroscience

Grade 6-8, Co-ed  (6/12 – 6/16 AM)

• 9:00a – 12:00p
• $165

Description

The human brain is one of the most complex and fascinating organs in the body. In Echelon Catapult’s Neuroscience and Psychology, students will explore the beautiful complexities of the mind on the cellular, anatomical, and behavioral level. Through a series of interactive lectures and activities, students will first learn about neurons, the fundamental cells of the animal nervous system. Then instructors will guide students through case studies and a sheep brain dissection as they explore the many subdivisions of the human brain and nervous system! Next, students will discover the intricacies of human behavior as they learn about the fundamental theories of psychology and apply them to social interaction, emotion, and behavior through fun activities and games.

Anatomy / Physiology

Grade 6-8, Co-ed  (4-days: 6/20 – 6/23 AM)

• 9:00a – 12:00p
• $165

Description

Have you ever wondered what makes you sweat, why exercising makes you stronger, or how your immune system fights off disease? Answer these questions and many more in Echelon Catapult’s Anatomy and Physiology! In this engaging and interactive course, students will first explore major concepts in physiology such as biological hierarchy, homeostasis, and cell specialization. The students will then investigate each of the major human body systems and create presentations about diseases in each of these systems. There will be at least 3 labs or activities each day, including a heart dissection, a biomolecule chemistry analysis, and building a take-home muscle model. On the final day of the course, students will utilize the knowledge they learned throughout the week by dissecting their own frog!

Robotics Engineering

Grade 6-9, Co-ed  (7/5 – 7/14 AM)

• 9:00a – 12:00p
• $390

Description

Robotics combines engineering, computer science, and problem-solving to create cutting-edge technology! In Introduction to Robotics and Engineering, we’ll learn the basics of robotics, with a focus on solving real-world challenges. Through hands-on projects and competitions, students will develop skills in mechanical and electrical engineering, software development, and problem analysis. Working in teams, we will practice communicating effectively and thinking creatively. By the end of the course, every student will have designed, coded, and built their very own take-home robot! 

This course will be taught by members from the nationally ranked St. Francis & Jesuit Robotics teams (with full adult supervision.)

Web Development

Grades 6-8, Co-ed  (6/12 - 6/16 PM)

• 1:00p – 4:00p
• $150

Description

We use websites every day, but have you ever wondered how you can make your own? In Introduction to Web Development, students will learn how to build and design their very own webpages! Through a series of fun, engaging projects, students will first gain a basic understanding of HTML and CSS, the two key technologies used in website creation. Students will then investigate how websites are designed and can be made interactive. Instructors will cover essential subjects such as user experience, design principles, and accessibility. At the conclusion of the course, each student will create their own unique webpage that they can share with their classmates!