Contributed Photo/Courtesy EAC: Local students attend the high adventure summer STEM Camp at Chauncey Ranch.
By Dr. Phil McBride, Ph.D./EAC
THATCHER — Eastern Arizona College partnered with the Eastern Arizona Science Initiative to host the eighth annual STEM Camp at Chauncey Ranch, near Mayer, Arizona. Fifty students in grades 7-10 from Bylas, Duncan, Fort Thomas, Green Valley, Mesa, Pima, Queen Creek, Safford, Surprise, and Thatcher attended the three-night high adventure camp.
Students were divided into three groups, each responsible for one day’s flag ceremony and retrieval of the colors. A highlight on Friday occurred when students from Bylas and Fort Thomas recited the Pledge of Allegiance in Apache as part of their flag ceremony. During the week, each group rotated through twelve activities: stream and pond ecology, an equine activity, fundamentals of archery, a “Low Ropes” course, a geology activity, mapping the digestive system using Ozobots, team building, and leadership, using the senses to observe nature, and even a “Zombie Escape Room.” The students also participated in Knockerball and archery competitions. On the last evening, all campers joined together for a talent showcase.
Camp staff included the Chauncey Ranch staff and local educators, including Becky Booth from Duncan, Ethan McBride from Thatcher, Phil and Paula McBride from Thatcher, Heather Dillman from Fort Thomas, Monica Clarine from Safford, and Paul and Tawnie Anger from Pima. These individuals taught many of the activities throughout the week, supervised each morning’s flag ceremony, hosted the evening talent show, and chaperoned the campers. Student participants were able to make new friends, overcome challenges, and work together in teams while learning about science, technology, engineering, and math.
Funding for the camp was provided by a grant from the United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties. Eastern Arizona College, EASI, and the camp staff and participants express gratitude to the United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties and extend thanks to the Freeport-McMoRan Foundation, Freeport employees, and other sponsors for making this camp possible.
For further information about STEM opportunities in your area, contact Paul Anger, director of the Eastern Arizona College Discovery Park Campus at (928) 428-6260.
Enroll Today in EAC Fall Classes: Classes begin on August 21. Call EAC’s Financial Aid Office at (928) 428-8287 for details. Register by calling EAC’s Records and Registration Office at (928) 428-8270, or online at www.eac.edu.
About Eastern Arizona College:
Eastern Arizona College – the first community college in Arizona – has helped students claim their dreams since 1888. With campuses in Thatcher, Globe, and Payson, EAC’s qualified and caring instructors prepare students for the most in-demand careers and advanced study at universities. EAC offers more than 80 certificates and degrees, including the #1 nursing school in Arizona, a fine arts program featuring the only marching band in Arizona, and an engineering program that brings students up to speed for success at universities and top-tiered firms. Students thrive at EAC, making friendships that last a lifetime. EAC’s vibrant student experience includes on-campus housing, more than 30 clubs and organizations, active intramurals, and nationally-ranked athletic and e-sports teams. At EAC, most students leave with $0 debt. Let EAC provide an affordable way for you to claim your dreams. Contact admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272 today.
