PHOTO ESSAY: KCSOS Summer STEAM Camps Inspire Lifelong Learning

Thousands of students from across Kern County are sparking curiosity and a love of learning at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) summer STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Camps. The summer extended learning program offers a variety of hands-on activities and lessons for several age groups and school districts.

Recognized for their impact, the summer STEAM Camps were nominated for a Beautiful Bakersfield Award in the Educational Excellence category. This year, the camps expanded to include the newly opened KCSOS STEAM Yard, which launched in early May. Each camp location features a unique theme, with lesson plans thoughtfully designed to align with each site’s focus.

At the California Living Museum (CALM), kids take advantage of the animal life on display in their habitats. Groups tour around different areas of the zoo, learning about genetics and biodiversity. Groups also rotate through various activities such as arts and crafts and coding. Students learn movement and coordination with line dancing lessons. One rotation focuses on engineering, with students working together to build a prototype box to keep food safe from bears.  On Wednesdays, a zookeeper gives a talk about the animals and habitats at CALM, and on Thursdays, students can ride the train.

Across town at the Kern County Museum, they put the A in STEAM. Groups rotate through various activities focusing on arts and crafts, including a baking soda art project. Students were also able to explore exciting career pathways with special guests from the KCSOS College and Career program.

The third location comprises both the Buena Vista Museum and the newly opened STEAM Yard, located across the street from the museum in downtown Bakersfield. Students rotate through activities in both buildings, taking advantage of the natural history available at the museum and the hands-on activities available at the STEAM Yard. El Tejon tribal dancers performed dance and musical numbers for the students, introducing them to the rich Native American history and culture of Kern County. 

The STEAM and Expanded Learning team, which creates the lesson plans and oversees the camps, says the summer learning program provides students with experiences they wouldn’t usually have inside a classroom. Extending education opportunities throughout the summer months also helps combat the learning loss that many students face, which can create knowledge gaps when they return to class in the fall.