Guilford Preparatory Academy’s summer tech lab program fosters STEM skills among middle schoolers

At Guilford Preparatory Academy in Greensboro, North Carolina, a technology lab has become the center of a program aimed at introducing middle school students to STEM and career skills. The Summer STEM and Career Accelerator Program, created with support from school board chair Alton Woods and director of operations Annette Lewis, is offered free to students from all backgrounds.

The program’s goal is to give students access to fundamental STEM tools and help them build both technical abilities and confidence. Each day during the month-long camp, students work on technology projects such as coding, robotics, and drones. They also receive lessons in financial literacy, including basic budgeting using spreadsheets.

Guest speakers are brought in to connect classroom activities with real-world careers. For example, a network technician explains how reliable systems keep schools running, while an alum shares insights about patience in debugging code. Social-emotional learning is integrated throughout the curriculum through teamwork exercises and esports matches that emphasize communication and sportsmanship.

By the end of the program, participants have gained introductory skills in block-based coding, tool safety, and personal finance. Teachers have observed increased engagement and improved social-emotional skills among students who attend the camp. Families have also expressed appreciation for the impact on their children.

One parent said: “Mrs. Wade, my child loves this program.” Another commented: “Thank you, Mrs. Wade. My child believes again.”

The teacher leading the program encourages other schools to create similar opportunities: “I share this story as an invitation and as proof of a public charter school in Greensboro, North Carolina, that creates opportunities with limited resources. We use what we have, we coach with patience and we build a culture that honors hard work and welcomes mistakes. Every school can do the same. Open the door and put technology in young students' hands. Stay long enough to see who they become.”