Kansas corn STEM grows student reach

By Scout Nelson

Kansas Corn STEM, an educational initiative by the Kansas Corn Commission, is marking a significant milestone in the 2023-24 school year. The program has impressively reached 104,645 students (about the seating capacity of the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum) and provided robust support to 3,844 Kansas educators.

Established to bolster agriculture education through STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Kansas Corn STEM offers specialized resources and training focused on various agricultural topics including corn, ethanol, biotechnology, and environmental concerns like soil and water conservation.

Kent Moore, Chair of the Kansas Corn Commission, highlighted the program's growth as it enters its ninth year. He emphasized the importance of integrating science and technology into corn farming and agriculture at large, noting the program's role in fostering knowledge and opening career pathways in these fields.

The initiative began in 2016 with the Seed to STEM workshop for middle and high school teachers. It has since evolved into a comprehensive educational tool, featuring a library of over 100 STEM lessons and activities suitable for all grade levels from PreK to 12. The materials, many of which come with free supplies, are designed to be easily integrated into classroom settings.

Sharon Thielen, Ph.D., Director of Education at Kansas Corn, mentioned the ongoing development of the program to meet changing educational needs and state standards. The involvement of over 20 Kansas educators in advisory and curriculum development roles ensures the resources remain relevant and effective.

Expanding its reach, Kansas Corn STEM now also offers kits for homeschool educators and has developed after-school and summer programs. Additionally, engaging materials like the "Mystery of Corn" readers and the "We Grow Corn" book for young learners have been introduced to stimulate interest and learning.

As the program continues to expand, it remains committed to providing free educational resources and training, helping educators effortlessly bring agriculture studies into their classrooms.

With two educators on staff for school presentations, Kansas Corn STEM's influence continues to grow, reaching more educators and students across Kansas each year.

Photo Credit: kansas-corn