The Math Counts Project is supporting elementary and middle schools across Campbell County (TN) to host their first series of Family STEM Nights (7 this semester). In supporting these schools, the Math Counts Team hosted two after-school professional developments on engaging families for middle and elementary teachers and coaches. The focus of these sessions was on specific practices, strategies, and activities for a potential Family STEM Night.
At these sessions, the participants:
- Discussed potential barriers for families to participate in students’ mathematics education.
- Discussed the multipurpose and potential impact of Family STEM Night on families and school culture.
- Thought through the design and characteristics of activities that would be successful at a Family STEM Night.
- Were introduced to online and text resources of potential activities and guides for planning and implementing a Family STEM Night.
- And, for the most part, engaged with hands-on examples of activities that could be adapted and integrated in a Family STEM Night for almost any age.
Additionally, CEEMS partnered with Vine Middle Magnet School to host the Third Annual Family STEM and Literacy Night. At this event Vine Middle students and their families engaged in activities and games that promote discussion and learning about STEM and Literacy. This event also provided an opportunity for CEEMS VolsTeach students to gain experience engaging with students and families in a school context. As part of the partnership, CEEMS students and staff volunteered to help out at the event and prepared STEM and Literacy activities and games.