Start a New Lab

 

No Lab in your area? Let’s start one!

 

The steps listed are things to think about before starting a STEM lab in your area.  These are just the beginning of a year full of science exploration and adventure!  At any point in this process, feel free free to contact the STEM & Exploring Executive at Rebekah.Schardt@scouting.org.

Below are a few steps to consider when thinking about a new lab.  Just like in research, you don’t need to have all the answers before we get started.  In fact, one of my favorite things about science is that you are not required to have all the answers (and it’s generally more fun when you don’t!).

 

STEP 1: Gather some interested people.

The first step in starting a new project is always finding people who are interested in exploring the STEM fields.  Typically, we hear from a parent who is interested in starting a STEM lab for their kids or from an organization interested in providing a meeting location.

 

STEP 2: Be prepared to answer some questions about your ideal STEM lab.

You don’t need to have all the answers before reaching out to the STEM & Exploring Executive, but there a few questions that will be asked early in the process:

  • Will this lab be for elementary, middle, or high school?
  • Where will the lab meet?
  • Will you meet for a full school year or just in the Spring?
  • Do you have a name for your Lab?

 

 

STEP 3: Identify Adult Volunteers

In order to start a lab, a minimum of 3 adult volunteers will be needed (however 4-5 adults are recommended):

  1. A Charter Organization Representative
  2. A Lab Manager
  3. An Assistant Lab Manager

Descriptions of these roles can be found on the Volunteer Opportunities page.  There will need to be at least 2 adults present at each meeting, so the more adult volunteers the better!

Other adult volunteers may be needed for the sign-up night since the future scouts will be off performing experiments as the parents listen to a brief presentation by the leadership.

It is highly recommended to at least have the charter Organization Representative and a Lab Manager prior to the sign-up night.

 

STEP 4: Contact the STEM Executive

If you haven’t done so yet, now would be a great time to contact the STEM & Exploring Executive at the New Birth of Freedom Council.  Her name is Rebekah and she is here to help!

Rebekah Schardt

Phone:  717.430.8081

e-mail: Rebekah.Schardt@scouting.org

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“The important thing is to never stop questioning”

~ Albert Einstein