Students learning science and math over summer break

FRESNO COUNTY (KFSN) -- Students in one rural community are putting their brains to work this summer expanding their knowledge of science and math.

Students at San Joaquin Elementary School receive awards and get a special dance party in celebration of completing a four-week science, technology, engineering, and mathematics-- or STEM-- camp.

"I like it because you get to learn more, and you get to play, and you get to get prizes," said Jamelita Reyes, student.

For the first time, instead of providing summer school classes for students to catch up, Golden Plains Unified School District partnered with the Fresno County Office of Education's Migrant Education Program to offer a jam-packed, fun but rigorous science camp. The free experience even includes breakfast and lunch.

"More than anything, with our program this summer we wanted to plant the seed and have the students explore and use their imagination. Show the students that they, too, can become scientists," said Karina Torres, Fresno County Office of Education.

Whether they're inventing organic plastics, creating the biggest bubble maker, or a fast race track, the camp is keeping the students engaged this summer.

Student, Delilah Torres, said, "We got ten straws and taped it together with tape."

"We designed a tower that's supposed to be the tallest and hold a stapler or remote," said Diego Zepeda, student.

"It's always so much fun to come in the classrooms and there's absolutely no (bad) behavior, no discipline because they're so immersed in the hands-on activities," said Martin Macias, superintendent.

Fresno County Office of Education hopes to expand the STEM Summer Camp to more schools next year.