Westfield Washington Public Library to host hands-on STEM workshops

Programs focused on engineering, design & collaborative learning

The Westfield Washington Public Library (WWPL) is gearing up for a new series of hands-on STEM workshops and learning presentations this summer, led by Jean Lee of The Academy of Chaos. The free programs are open to children, teens, and families, with a focus on engineering, designing, and collaborative learning.

Lee

Lee’s workshops are built around team-based, project-focused learning. Participants will explore the process of engineering through creative challenges – starting with an inspiration or idea, then brainstorming, and finally building with their group using provided tools and materials.

“There’s no right or wrong way,” Lee said. “The teams build off each other’s strengths.”

No experience is needed to participate, and the workshops are designed to support communication, problem solving, and critical thinking.

“It’s a fast and easy way for friendships to grow,” Lee said. “We’re creating the future leaders, engineers, and scientists. I want kids to walk away knowing science is fun.”

The series begins May 10 with an introduction to engineering, followed by sessions on building automata in June and designing arcade-style games in July. The final class will include a public game-play event for all library patrons. In addition to the workshops, two family presentations will be offered: one on using design thinking (May 10) and another on project-based learning methods (June 17).

Lee says the programs are more than just fun – they’re preparing kids for a future that’s still unfolding.

“We’re helping prepare them for jobs that don’t exist yet,” she said.

All sessions are free and open to the public. Registration is available now at TheAcademyOfChaos.com.