2025 STARBASE Wisconsin Summer STEM Academy
Join us for a FREE, four-day STEM academy in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, designed to engage and inspire students in grades 4-8. This hands-on, 20-hour academic outreach program is designed to increase excitement and knowledge in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Hurry, registration is open now—don’t miss your chance! The deadline to submit your Interest Form is Friday, February 28th.
Program Overview
- Eligibility: Youth who have completed grades 4-8 are invited to participate in the program.
- Dates & Times: Daily sessions occur between service hours from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Individual session times will be reflected in the Program Details.
- Location: All sessions take place at the US Army Reserve Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
- Program Fee: Free!
This engaging program includes:
- Hands-on learning experiences
- Opportunities to explore science, technology, and engineering
- Collaborative group work and problem-solving activities
Available Summer Sessions
We offer a variety of sessions throughout the summer. You can select the session that works best for your schedule!
- June 16-18, 23-24
- Flight Program (AM or PM Sessions)
- June 16 – 19
- Introduction to STEM (Grades 4-6 only), Robots and Rockets
- June 23 – 26
- Introduction to STEM (Grades 4-6 only), Robots and Rockets
- July 7 – 10
- Introduction to STEM (Grades 6-8 only), Robots and Rockets
- July 14 – 17
- Introduction to STEM, Robots and Rockets
- July 21 – 24
- Introduction to STEM, Robots and Rockets
- July 28 – 31
- Introduction to STEM (Grades 4-6 only), Robots and Rockets
Program Details
Program 1: Flight Program
Grade Levels: Middle School (Grades 6-8)
Dates & Times:
– Session 1: June 16-18 & 23-24 from 8 am to 12 pm
– Session 2: June 16-18 & 23-24 from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm
Description: This aviation science program explores the fundamental principles of flight, connecting real-world applications to NGSS and Common Core standards. Students will investigate forces of flight, Bernoulli’s Principle, iterative design for aircraft (drones and airplanes), and the impact of weather on navigation. Through hands-on activities, students will create and test their own aircraft models and develop simulated flight plans. The program concludes with a competition to see which model withstands the heat!
Program 2: Introduction to STEM at STARBASE Wisconsin
Grade Levels: Must have completed Grades 4-8
Times: 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Description: This program explores effective strategies of a STEM-focused curriculum for youth, emphasizing hands-on learning. Students will enhance critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills through interactive activities. Subjects include chemistry, physics, forensic science, robotics, electricity, and more. Students will engage with models of electrical circuits, LEGO(r) robots, molecular kits, and rockets.
Program 3: Robots and Rockets
Grade Levels: Must have completed Grades 5-8
Times: 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Description: This program offers an introductory look into rocketry and robotics. Students will build and launch solid propellant rockets that reach heights of up to 1,000 feet. They will also explore our solar system and discuss the travel times to various planets.
The second half of the program includes a robotics challenge, where students program LEGO Spike Prime robots to accomplish specific tasks. Teams will present their projects in a multimedia presentation and compete in a friendly competition.
Registration Information
To register for the Summer STARBASE Program, please follow the steps below:
Step 1: Complete the Program Interest Form
Before registering, please submit an Interest Form for each child you wish to enroll. This helps us gather your preferences and process your registration efficiently.
- What to include: Indicate your household’s first and second preferred dates to attend each program.
- One form per child: Please complete a separate Interest Form for each student per program.
- Deadline: Complete the Interest Form by Friday, February 28th.
After submitting your Interest Form, STARBASE Wisconsin will send you the official registration materials (form and permission slip) for your child.
Step 2: Group Registration (Optional)
Youth organizations, summer school groups, and other groups are welcome to register as well! Please note the following:
- Chaperones required: Groups must be chaperoned during the program.
- For more details about group registration, please contact us directly.
Registration Contacts
For any questions or additional information, please reach out to us at:
- Phone: (414) 260-7755
- Email: starbasewi@widma.gov
FAQs
Q: Who can attend the program?
A: Youth who have completed grades 4-8 are eligible for the STEM sessions.
Q: What STEM topics will be covered?
A: STEM topics for each session will be announced closer to the program dates.
Q: Can my child attend more than one session?
A: Yes, you can register your child for multiple sessions if desired, but please check session availability and content.
Q: Is there a fee to attend?
A: No, this program is completely free!
Important Information
- Session Times: Daily sessions occur between service hours from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
- Location: All sessions are held at the US Army Reserve Center, Milwaukee, WI.
- Group Registration: Groups must be chaperoned.