Robots, 3D Printer Donated To Anne Arundel County School

GLEN BURNIE, MD — A mobile STEM center was donated to Glen Burnie Park Elementary School this month, teaching young minds the power of science, technology, engineering and math.

The donation is among 10 centers being developed as part of a three-year, $500,000 grant provided by the University of Maryland Medical System to the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, which supports education in memory of the late Baltimore Orioles coaching legend.

“Introducing STEM early is essential because it fosters critical thinking skills,” Glen Burnie Park Elementary Principal Colleen McFarland said in a press release. “Our students begin to see themselves as problem solvers—not just in their daily lives, but in how they can apply those skills to make an impact on the world.”

The school celebrated with an April 3 ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the third-grade STEM Club.

“My favorite activity is making robots because I get to use technology,” STEM Club member Chandler Shephard said, according to the release. “It’s easier to do it hands-on than just read a book. Also, I want to be a scientist!”

Attendees explored early coding skills through “Bee Bots,” experimented with electronics using Snap Circuits, observed a 3D printer in action and engaged with stations designed to foster creativity and engineering skills. Each activity is packaged to be wheeled on carts to different parts of the school for engaging with a variety of students at all different grade levels.

“We haven’t had this many kits available before—ones that give students the chance to explore in depth,” STEM Club leader and teacher Alex Stewart said in the release. “They can use the materials to align with the curriculum, and as they grow, they’ll be able to dive deeper into the kits and tackle more advanced projects.”

The University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center and Glen Burnie Park Elementary School have a long history of collaboration, working together to offer health and wellness education and materials to students and families through back-to-school resource fairs, car seat safety instructional classes and kindergarten orientation. The hospital’s Community Outreach Team also offers Safe at Home and Safe Sitter classes for children, where instructors teach kids safety tips for when they are home alone and for when they are watching another child.

UM BWMC offers several opportunities to engage with the community throughout the year, including Community Wellness Day, which was this Saturday at the hospital’s Outpatient Care Center. To learn more about UM BWMC’s community outreach programs, visit umbwmc.org/community.

“At UM BWMC, we believe the health and wellbeing of our community begins with investing in the future of our youth,” Kathy McCollum, President and CEO of UM BWMC, said in the release. “Thanks to our partnership with the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation and Anne Arundel County Public Schools, we’re able to open this STEM Center and introduce families to fun, interactive activities that spark curiosity and give students the tools they need to succeed in science, technology, and healthcare careers. Through these efforts, we’re building on our strong connection to Glen Burnie, and are proud to support the next generation.”