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Student-led FLIPS STEM camp praised by trustees; organizers seek funding to expand
Summary
A student-led FLIPS STEM camp that reached about 80 children and recruited more than 40 high-school volunteers was recognized at the Crowley ISD board meeting; student leader Arntel Lee said the program plans a spring camp and requested funding support to expand stations and outreach.
Trustees at the Crowley ISD board meeting recognized a student-led STEM initiative, FLIPS (Fostering Leaders, Innovators and Pioneers in STEM), and praised the student leaders who organized a recent camp that organizers said reached about 80 children.
Arntel Lee, a junior at North Crowley High School who described himself as a FLIPS organizer, told the board the inaugural camp involved station-based activities run by high-school students and impacted 80 children from about 15 middle and elementary schools; three participating schools were from outside Crowley ISD. "Our camp impacted 80 children," he said, and noted more than 40 high-school volunteers supported the camp, including 12 station leads.
Lee said FLIPS aims to expand next semester to include more districts, better stations and additional funding. Trustees repeatedly thanked the students and encouraged district support for outreach and partnerships. Several trustees suggested ways the board and district staff could help spread the word and facilitate future collaboration.
Why it matters: Student-driven programs that engage peers as mentors can expand hands-on STEM exposure; trustees framed the program as a way to spark interest among underrepresented students and as a potential district partnership opportunity.
Next steps: Lee said he is working with district staff on funding and logistics. Trustees offered to assist with publicity and connections to schools and recommended further coordination as the program plans its spring camp.
