Embracing Growth and Community Engagement through ONRAMP Externship

As a Library/Media Paraprofessional Librarian at Hawthorne Elementary School, I am always seeking ways to enhance my teaching methods. This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Idaho STEM Action Center’s externship partnership with Boise State’s ONRAMP program. This transformative experience connected me with industry leaders, educators, and community partners passionate about STEM education. Through hands-on projects and collaborative sessions, I gained a deeper understanding of practical STEM applications and learned why each one of their student mentors was pursuing a STEM career. Hearing their personal learning journeys made a significant impact on me. The externship provided new strategies and resources, especially through Apple’s “Your Apple Teacher Journey,” to make STEM more accessible and engaging for my students. Integrating real-world problems into the curriculum will inspire students to think critically and creatively. The externship also emphasized the value of community engagement in education. Building connections with local businesses and organizations will provide unique learning experiences and mentorship opportunities. Additionally, integrating technology into outdoor learning, supported by Apple tools will help me create dynamic, interactive lessons. As I prepare for the new school year, I am excited and confident in my fresh perspective on teaching. I am committed to fostering a learning environment that encourages curiosity, innovation, and community involvement. I look forward to sharing these insights with colleagues and inspiring students to explore the endless possibilities STEM offers.