Minneapolis Public Schools

The GEMS-GISE-STEM Academies are after-school STEM programs designed specifically for Minneapolis Public School District students in Kindergarten through 8th grade. The programs focus on explorations of science and mathematics through project-based and problem-based learning experiences promoting the integration of engineering and technology concepts, content, and process. Students that participate in GEMS-GISE enroll in a year-long after-school program that is comprised of two semester courses with an opportunity to continue learning in the six week summer K-8 STEM Academy.

This class is offered as a Tuesdaya nd Thursday class.  We would love for students to attend both days but understand that is not always possible. Please join us, even if for one day each week. 

Fall 2025: Robotics- Middle School Robotics Team

In this dynamic robotics class, students will explore mechanical design, construction, programming, and teamwork skills. Working in pairs with LEGO building elements, motors, and sensors, they will build various robot prototypes. Students will program these robots to move, react, and make sounds, applying their skills to solve design challenges using LEGO SPIKE Essential & Prime robotic systems. The class will culminate in participation in the 2026 FIRST LEGO League Challenge UNEARTHED℠ on January 17, 2026.

Get ready to dig in! In the UNEARTHED℠ Challenge, students and their LEGO team will harness creativity, critical thinking, and technology to explore this season’s challenge. Teams are challenged to combine the thrill of archaeology with the power of technology. It's a chance for students to use their STEM skills, innovation, and teamwork to uncover the past and help shape the future!

Spring 2026: Build, Power, Create! (Energy-Electricity-Electronics)

Power up your mind! In our Energy, Electricity, and Electronics course, students will be an investigator, diving into the core concepts that light up our world. Students explore the fundamentals of energy, including how it's measured, converted, and transferred. We will also look to the future, examining the importance of conservation and the potential of alternative energy sources through a hands-on, problem-based approach. Students will conduct investigations into key concepts like currents, open and closed circuits, series and parallel circuits, and static electricity. Students also explore the properties of conductors and insulators, and the principles of magnetism as they work on exciting, project-based experiments.

Get ready to level up! Engage in exciting electronics projects, middle school students learn to build, test, and troubleshoot circuits using circuit boards and other electronic components. The adventure continues with a special opportunity to explore the fascinating world of digital electronics. Students will create their own projects using microcontrollers and sensors, bringing their ideas to life!

This class is only open to Justice Page Students.