GEMS, GISE & STEM
The GEMS and GISE programs are award-winning science programs that energize our students' excitement about the possibilities in cutting-edge science. We value the talent and innovation the programs developers and teachers bring to the Minneapolis Public Schools.
Girls in Engineering, Mathematics, and Science (GEMS), Guys in Science and Engineering (GISE), and Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Academy are after-school and summer programs designed specifically for K-8th grade girls and boys (respectively) in the Minneapolis Public School District. The goal of these programs is for students to have measurable and significant gains in mathematics and science. Inaugurated in 1997, the success of GEMS prompted the development of GISE in 2006. The grades K-3 programs started in the fall of 2010.
These STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs are supported through the collaborative efforts of the Minneapolis Public School District, the Minneapolis Federation of Teachers, and Achieve! Twin Cities. Principal benefactors and community partners include:
- The Cargill Foundation
- High Tech Kids
- NASA Glenn Research Center
- Wilderness Inquiry
- Urban Boat Builders
- Science from Scientists
- Minnesota STEM Partnership
- Green Careers
- Just B Solar
- Solar Kidz
- Camp Invention
- SPARKZ Camp
- PBL Works (Project Based Learning)
Contact
Melinda Stapley
Program Coordinator, GEMS/GISE/STEM
612-668-1207
Melinda.Stapley@mpls.k12.mn.us
1250 W. Broadway Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55411
Fax: 612-668-5305
Program Overview
The GEMS-GISE-STEM Academies are after-school and summer school STEM programs designed specifically for Minneapolis Public School District students in Kindergarten through 8th grade. The programs focus on explorations of science and mathematics through project-based and problem-based learning experiences promoting the integration of engineering and technology concepts, content, and process. Students that participate in GEMS-GISE enroll in a year-long after-school program that is comprised of two semester courses with an opportunity to continue learning in the six week summer K-8 STEM Academy.
Fall 2024- Robotics
In this dynamic robotics class, students will explore mechanical design, construction, programming, and teamwork skills. Working in pairs with LEGO building elements, motors, and sensors, they will build various robot prototypes. Student will program these robots to move, react, and make sounds, applying their skills to solve design challenges using LEGO SPIKE Prime robotic systems. The class will culminate in participation in the 2025 FIRST LEGO League Challenge SUBMERGED℠ on January 25, 2025.
In the SUBMERGED℠ Challenge, students and their LEGO team will harness creativity, critical thinking, and technology to explore the ocean's depths, surfacing their discoveries and innovative ideas. Beneath the surface of the ocean lies one of the planet's most complex and vibrant ecosystems, streaming with life and brimming with opportunities for exploration and learning. Each organism plays a crucial role in maintaining a thriving environment. Along the way, students will discover our collective potential to strengthen communities and drive innovation for a healthier, more sustainable world with thriving oceans.
Spring 2025 – Force & Motion: STEM of Speed
This class offers an exciting adventure into the world of engineering design and prototyping. Students will learn critical science principles of force and motion, such as Newton's laws, friction, gravity, and aerodynamics, which are essential for designing a variety of efficient prototype vehicles. Through the engineering design process, students will brainstorm, sketch, build, test, and refine their prototypes, gaining invaluable hands-on experience. Students will engage in creativity, problem-solving skills, and the identify the impact of iterative improvement on the performance of their prototypes. K-8 students will have the opportunity to test the limits of all their vehicle designs in various races for speed and challenges designed for distance. Students in 4th -8th grades will also have the option to design and build CO2 dragsters, providing a thrilling culmination to their learning journey. This class not only teaches students about force and motion, but also prepares them with skills to innovate and prototype.
Educational Activities
Desiring some educational activities when school is not in session (or for any other time!)?
GEMS-GISE STEM Locations
To learn more about afterschool programming or to register at your school, click the school name to email your afterschool lead.
Program Staff
Interested in our Summer Scholars Academy?
For website issues or errors, please contact chrisie.jennings@mpls.k12.mn.us