Residents ask Humboldt County for space to run elementary STEM program

Two local residents asked the county to help find a community space where they can run a year‑round elementary STEM program.

"we're just looking for space. So we're thinking about 25 to 30 kids," said Emily Lane, who identified herself during public comment as an organizer and former high‑school science teacher. Lane and Melissa Rivers outlined plans for an hour‑long weekly session that would include engineering builds, Lego robotics, coding and hands‑on science activities, and said they hoped the program would eventually link into the high‑school robotics pathway.

Lane said the organizers prefer an open public site rather than a church so all families feel welcome, and that initial outreach will rely on social media and local parent groups. They asked the board whether the county had any rooms or facilities that could be made available and noted a target startup in July to allow time for registration and equipment logistics.

Board members suggested short‑term options including park facilities and keys for food‑pantry space access, and a staff member offered to follow up with site contacts. The board did not take formal action during the comment period but advised staff to explore available county spaces and to check with school officials about potential weekday or evening availability.