Eastern Oregon University Football Players Partner with GO STEM Program to Pack STEM Kits for 4th Grade Students

Eastern Oregon University Football Players Partner with GO STEM Program to Pack STEM Kits for 4th Grade Students

LA GRANDE, Ore. – Eastern Oregon University’s football players demonstrated their commitment to education and community service by joining forces with the Greater Oregon STEM Hub (GO STEM) to assemble STEM kits for 2,200 fourth-grade students across Eastern Oregon. On Saturday, April 6, a dedicated crew of football players and coaches collaborated with GO STEM staff to pack boxes filled with science kits.

This collaboration marks the fourth consecutive year of the STEM kit distribution initiative, which originated during the pandemic to support remote learning efforts. David Melville, Executive Director of GO STEM, emphasized the significance of reaching students at a pivotal stage in their education. “Fourth grade is a critical time when students are transitioning to more independent learning,” Melville stated. “Introducing STEM concepts at this stage opens doors to exploration and ignites curiosity.”

The STEM kits, which include challenges like catapults, gravity racers, and geometric structures, aim to make science engaging and accessible for young learners. Through the support of sponsors like Amazon Web Services and partnerships with EOU’s football team, GO STEM has been able to expand its reach and impact.

“EOU football players play a crucial role in the success of this program,” Melville acknowledged. “Their dedication and hard work save us countless hours and ensure that these STEM kits reach students efficiently.”

In addition to the football team’s efforts, EOU’s Shipping and Receiving department and Sodexo Catering Services contributed to the project’s success. Together, they packed and shipped boxes to 52 elementary schools across seven counties in Eastern Oregon.

The collaboration between EOU’s football team and GO STEM exemplifies the university’s commitment to community engagement and educational outreach. By providing hands-on STEM experiences, the initiative aims to inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.
For more information about the GO STEM program and its initiatives, visit go-stem.org.