Computer Science Programs

We provide weekly Computer Science Unplugged programming for roughly 1 hour for 4-12 weeks for youth grades 5-12. Our Computer Science Unplugged programs were designed by a Computer Science Ph.D. and Associate Professor of Computer Science at Grand Valley State University. These programs introduce computer science concepts in a fun, hands on way that makes it approachable for students. By introducing youth to computer science in middle school, we aim to reach students who typically wouldn't have considered a career in computer science and spark an interest in the field. For example, students learn about state space with tic-tac-toe tournaments using different sized tic-tac-toe boards. Concepts of state space are tied back to password security and why even computers have a hard time with some very big problems. Careers are then introduced that use these skill sets, including Game Engineers, Game Designers and Game Testers.

We also engage volunteer guest speakers that give STEM career talks. Students hear from diverse volunteers about their STEM career, and the educational path they took to get there. The goal is to introduce youth to careers in STEM that they may not have considered in the past and learn how they can become qualified to do that in their future.

• Option 1- In-School Program: We can come to your school to offer computer science programming during the school day. 

• Option 2- After School Program: We can offer computer science programming after school, either at a centralized location in the district, or at a particular school/ program location.

There is currently no cost to have our programs in your district if you serve over 50% minority students, or over 50% economically disadvantaged students. However, we do ask for classroom space and a teacher, staff or parent volunteer to be present to help supervise programming. Our lessons teach computer science concepts (e.g., logic, binary, discrete probability, mechanical computing via Turing Tumbles) that do not need computers, so they are accessible for any classroom. We are currently at capacity for 2025-2026 school year, but if you are interested in having computer science programs at your school for the 2026-2027 school year, please contact info@stemmingideas.org.

STEM Community Programs

We partner with existing organizations to provide special one-day STEM programs in chemistry, biology and computer science. Our STEM activities range from elementary school programs learning about non-Newtonian fluid by making slime, to middle school programs teaching binary coding using pixel art, and high school programs building mechanical computers to solve logic puzzles. Our programs typically last 1-2 hours and serve up to 30 youth in grades K-12. If you are interested in having our STEM Community Programs at your organization or event please contact info@stemmingideas.org.