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Denton, Tx - Summer STEM programs are evolving beyond basic enrichment into hands-on experiences that combine real-world problem solving with confidence building. The College of Education’s STEAM Education Research and Collaboration (SERC) Lab is offering three camps this summer, including two on UNT’s campus and one in partnership with the Forest Hill Library District. 

“STEM education in summer programs is becoming more interdisciplinary, experiential, and accessible,” said Dr. Queshonda Kudaisi, noting that today’s programs emphasize collaboration and culturally relevant learning. Her camps incorporate AI-supported tools, simulations, and hands-on activities with rovers, drones, and coding, while keeping mathematics at the core.  While these tools enhance learning, the primary focus remains on developing critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills, encouraging students to clearly explain their reasoning and justify their solutions.

“A major emphasis in my program is the integration of mathematics as the foundation of all STEM learning,” Dr. Kudaisi said.

The program also focuses on making STEM welcoming for beginners by connecting lessons to students’ everyday experiences and creating an environment where “curiosity is valued over correctness.” Beyond building skills, the goal is to foster confidence and belonging. The program integrates mathematics throughout every activity while prioritizing relationships, ensuring students feel seen, supported, and challenged as they learn to view STEM as both relevant and empowering. 

“It’s not just about learning STEM skills, it’s about helping students see themselves in STEM,” Dr. Kudaisi said, adding that fun and rigor go hand in hand in keeping students engaged.

See below for more information on the camps offered, the dates, how to register and more!

Mission to Mars! Camp, June 1st - June 5th

The first camp, offered by SERC, will be a Mission to Mars, where students will embark on a simulated mission to Mars! Campers will code robotic rovers to navigate Martian terrain and experience the Red Planet through immersive virtual reality technology. As part of this week’s adventure, students will visit UNT’s Sky Theater to watch Mars: The Ultimate Voyage, a captivating planetarium show that explores what it will take for astronauts to travel to Mars and beyond. This camp integrates STEM concepts in every activity, helping students deepen their understanding of space science, engineering, and technology while building critical thinking and collaboration skills. This camp will only be offered to students from Grades 3-8 (must have completed second grade). Find more information on what to expect and how to register here.

Registration is open until all spots are filled. Lunch will be provided each day to campers. If you have any questions, please reach out to SERC@unt.edu.

RoboCity Quest Camp, June 8th - June 12th

The second camp, offered by SERC, is a Robocity Quest camp, where students will dive further into the world of robotics to create and use problem solving skills to send their rovers and drones on missions. Campers will explore how robotic vehicles and drones are transforming industries like delivery services, experiencing a hands-on simulation that mirrors their reality. As an education camp, RoboCity Quest integrates STEM content throughout, ensuring students strengthen their coding, engineering, and problem-solving skills while improving their overall STEM knowledge. This camp will only be offered to students from Grades 3-8 (must have completed second grade). Find more information on what to expect and how to register here.

Registration is open until all spots are filled. Lunch will be provided each day to campers. If you have any questions, please reach out to SERC@unt.edu.

STEM Learning Camp, June 23rd - June 26th

Can't make it to the either of the camps offered the first two weeks of June? Never fear! The final STEM camp, hosted by Forest Hill Library District, is all things STEM! Campers will explore science, technology, engineering, and math through engaging activities designed to spark curiosity and ignite creativity. Perfect for curious young minds, the camp includes interactive experiments that are fun and educational, and most inportanly, free! This camp will only be offered to students from the ages of 8 to 12. Find more information on what to expect and how to register here.

Lunch will be provided each day to campers. If you have any questions, please reach out to fhplstaff@gmail.com.