By Lacie DeGough
If you know a 5th – 8th grader who wants to learn to code, listen up! Rural Up’s 2024 STEM Explorer Camp is designed with aspiring computer programmers in mind. With a mobile laboratory called Explorer7, Rural Up travels across Eastern Kentucky teaching kids to code with their high-tech equipment and engaging teaching style. The purpose of this camp? To help students get excited about the world of STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.
What is Rural Up’s mission?
“To empower Eastern Kentucky’s youth by enhancing the education-to-workforce transition through career-connected learning and equipping students with the durable skills required for success in the 21st century.”
What is this camp, exactly?
Rural Up’s 2024 STEM Explorer Camp is a week-long program aboard the Explorer7. Each day, students are introduced to STEM topics such as cybersecurity, AI, micropipettes, circuits, and more — and they’re taught through engaging hands-on activities, challenges, and interactive learning experiences. Explorer7 is decorated with vibrant, colorful graphics inside and out, along with touchscreen TVs at each student’s desk that keep kids engaged and excited all week long. For just $30, 5th – 8th graders can enter this program — with snacks and drinks included! And if the cost of the camp is a deterrent for anyone, scholarships are also available for students.
Who funds the program?
A technology-centered program like the STEM Explorer Camp requires financial backing, and Rural Up has plenty of local support. One of their grantors is the Appalachian Impact Fund, an Impact Investing Initiative of the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky. The Appalachian Impact Fund is reshaping investment strategy in the region by creating conditions for social enterprises, nonprofits, and community projects to succeed. They serve as a valuable funding platform for state, regional, and national partners. This year, the Appalachian Impact Fund provided Rural Up with a $20,000 grant for their summer camp, helping ensure that children in Eastern Kentucky will have access to this engaging program.
Jessica Bledsoe (Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky’s Impact Investment Coordinator) with the Rural Up team
Where can I find this summer camp?
If you know of a tween or teen who would be interested in this incredible learning opportunity, check out the dates below to find out where you can find the Explorer7 this summer!
July 1-3
Jackson County Public Library in McKee (Jackson County)
Monday – Wednesday, 10am-3pm daily
The fee is waived for all students who register; courtesy of the Library and Partners for Rural Impact (PRI).
July 8-12
Harlan Independent High School (Harlan County)
Monday – Friday, 9am-12pm daily
July 15-18
Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College, Barbourville (Knox County)
Monday – Thursday, 10am-3pm daily
Priority registration for Partners for Rural Impact (PRI) students. The fee is also waived for PRI students.
July 22-26
EKU Manchester Campus (Clay County)
Monday – Friday, 9am-12pm daily
Want to learn more?
Visit Rural Up’s website to register your 5th – 8th grader in the 2024 STEM Explorer Camp! You can also find more information about their summer camp on their Facebook and Instagram pages.
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