BOISE — Kids around the valley got an early introduction to the world of STEM.
"We are programming a robot," said 5th grade attendee Elli Smith.
A new five year strategic plan for boosting stem education came from the Trump administration this December with an emphasis on building a stronger foundation. The city is holding more robotics camps for children to=o spark interest in STEM.
"A lot of the focus we've seen is when they get older, and kids in elementary school they see it on the virtual side, but not necessarily the robotics hands-on, so our big focus is getting kids in, having hands-on experience," said Idaho Robotics co-owner Amber Roy.
The camp curriculum is designed to be introductory, but gives kids a chance to see if it's a field they want to progress in.
"Small kids can do it, and then when they get older they can get to do java script, instead of block coding," said 6th grade attendee Logan Roy.
City officials plan to increase these types of camps as kids are growing up with more advanced technology, as long as it's attainable.
"It's important that we try to keep in tune with the climate of what technology has to offer," said recreation coordinator Clay Lee.
As more digital natives prepare to enter the workforce, catching the younger generations up with the changing technology means more job opportunities when their time comes.
"Well technology is growing and it's just a fun way to get to know technology," said Smith.
