INL brings STEM education to Fort Hall at new summer program
Fort Hall youth attend a tour of Idaho National Laboratory as part of the “STEM Scholars on the Road” summer program.
By YVONNE WARJACK
Sho-Ban News
FORT HALL — For the first time, Fort Hall youth were able to experience hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning – right in their own backyard – thanks to a new partnership with the Idaho National Laboratory (INL).
The program, “STEM Scholars on the Road,” was created to eliminate barriers that typically prevent Fort Hall youth from accessing INL’s educational opportunities in Idaho Falls. Transportation and scheduling have often been obstacles, but this year, INL brought the learning directly to the Fort Hall Summer Recreation Program.
“This program came from conversations with tribal partners, including Elese Teton, to ensure we built trust and delivered something meaningful for the community,” said Sunshine Perry, one of the program’s coordinators from INL. “It’s about showing students what’s possible – and helping them see themselves in STEM careers.”
Youth participated in a virtual reality exhibit.
The event served a wide range of students, from preschoolers to recent high school graduates. To meet the needs of such a diverse group, INL staff year’s theme. Children built model cars and airplanes, constructed spaghetti-marshmallow towers to simulate civil engineering, and explored coding through Ozobots and Indy cars.
High school students also had the opportunity to tour INL and learn about internships, research, and career paths. “We want them to understand that there’s a place for them in this work,” Perry explained.
Feedback from the event was overwhelmingly positive. Parents, grandparents, and students expressed excitement, especially about building and coding. “Some students shared that they want to work at INL someday,” said Perry. “That’s what we hope to inspire.” Numerous community partners supported the program, including Alana Edmo’s Tribal DOE group, Idaho State University’s stream ecology team, Boise State University, the local fire and police departments, Navajo Power, Seven Skyline (Amber Hastings), the broadband team, the Museum of Idaho, the HETO Program (LaRae Bill and Anna Bowers), and the Shoshone-Bannock Hotel.
INL STEM Week staff coordinate the carnival event for youth.
“This collaboration was essential,” Perry said. “It shows what we can do when we come together for our students.”
Looking ahead, INL plans to expand the program beyond the summer recreation students and accommodate local events such as the Unity Conference. The goal is to reach more families and provide even broader STEM exposure.
Parents and guardians are also encouraged to get involved. “You don’t have to be a teacher,” Perry emphasized. “You can attend STEM nights, community carnivals, or even just ask your kids questions about what they’re learning. Kids are more likely to pursue STEM when they see their family engaged and interested.”
A STEM Week carnival included rides in a Fort Hall Fire & EMS truck lift for youth.
Perry also highlighted the importance of community support in helping students succeed in STEM. “We need more opportunities, more resources – especially transportation and childcare,” she said. “We also need to amplify existing programs and start family conversations, like talking circles, to help guide students forward.”
Perry’s message is clear: Fort Hall’s students are the scientists, engineers, and innovators of tomorrow – and they need the support of their whole community to reach that potential.
