A Look at the impact Resource Training & Solutions' role in empowering students beyond the classroom.

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Each year Resource Training & Solutions coordinates a series of events to engage, equip, and empower students beyond the classroom. From Knowledge Bowl and the Central Minnesota Regional Spelling Bee to the Spark STEM Conference, Resource works behind-the-scenes on many of the educational enrichment programs that you see in the news.

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Recently, we were lucky enough to have one of our member school districts share with us just how impactful these events can be. Graham Anderson, a student from Princeton High School, Class of 2024, reminisced about his transformative experience at Science Rocks during his application to Stanford University. Reflecting on his journey, Graham articulated how Science Rocks, now known as the Spark STEM Conference, ignited his passion for learning. For over a decade, students in Princeton have eagerly participated in Spark STEM and the Young Authors Young Artists conference, which remain integral components of the Advanced Academics program in the Princeton School District.

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“In 5th grade, I attended an event at a local college called “Science Rocks!” (it does, indeed). This event brought kids from all over the state and introduced them to a variety of science topics. I remember feeling grown-up as we huddled in little groups around maps to find the correct rooms in the college building all on our own. The part that I remember most about that day was a lecture on robotics. I sat on the metaphorical and literal edge of my seat, trying to see as much as I could of the multiple robots that the lecturer had brought. Multiple ideas behind robotics were covered: how they move, how they stay upright, how they sense the world around them, and what problems were present in them. I imagined how the tiny actuators on one small, humanoid robot were able to move the joints so well, and what they must have looked like on the inside. I left in wonder and with the realization that I NEEDED to know how the world and machines worked. I still wonder about the inner workings of any mechanism that I run into. And I still love to learn how they work.”

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Graham's story epitomizes the profound impact of Resource Training & Solutions' commitment to student enrichment programs. The opportunity for students to traverse college campuses and immerse themselves in hands-on learning experiences, such as the robotics session that inspired Graham, is invaluable.

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"I remember feeling grown-up as we huddled in little groups around maps to find the correct rooms in the college building all on our own. The part that I remember most about that day was a lecture on robotics. I sat on the metaphorical and literal edge of my seat, trying to see as much as I could of the multiple robots that the lecturer had brought." - Graham Anderson, Princeton High School Student, Class of 2024

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Dr. Michelle Wang is the Education Director at Resource Training & Solutions, she believes that “Out-of-school learning, like our student conferences, provides students the opportunity to participate in hands-on, experiential activities that reinforce or supplement their classroom learning. Exposure to new ideas and concepts that might not be covered in the regular curriculum nurtures a love for learning, fosters personal growth, and prepares students for real-world contexts.” As we continue to witness the transformative power of these events, it reaffirms our dedication to nurturing the curiosity and passion for learning in students across our region like Graham.

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"Exposure to new ideas and concepts that might not be covered in the regular curriculum nurtures a love for learning, fosters personal growth, and prepares students for real-world contexts.” - Dr. Michelle Wang, Education Director at Resource Training & Solutions

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Our student programs are exclusively available to associate and full members of Resource Training & Solutions. If your district is not currently a member and would like to explore membership options, please contact Dr. Michelle Wang, Education Director, at mwang@resourcecoopmn.gov. For more information about each of the student programs, please visit our Student Programs webpage.