East Hartford Public Schools (EHPS) is proud to announce the opening of the EHPS STEM Lab designed to give elementary students elevated hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The lab opened on October 20, when the first 5th grade classes began their visits to the new space located at East Hartford High School.
This innovative initiative is the result of a partnership between EHPS and the Connecticut Science Center, aimed at deepening young students’ understanding of science through authentic, hands-on investigations using real-world lab equipment. All 450 East Hartford 5th grade students will visit the lab twice during the 2025-2026 school year, participating in extended STEM lessons designed and led by Connecticut Science Center educators.
The first lab session, running through November 12, is called Planet Hunters. Students simulate a real-world NASA mission and explore what planets need to sustain life by conducting investigations involving light, temperature, and gravity. A second session will be held in the spring, featuring new experiments and experiences that will continue to build STEM skills, interest, and curiosity to prepare students for success in middle school.
“Our goal is to make science come alive for our students in a way that is both exciting and meaningful,” said EHPS Superintendent Thomas Anderson. “By giving our elementary students access to an authentic lab environment with hands-on equipment, we’re strengthening their problem solving and critical thinking skills while encouraging inquiry-based discussions and deeper questioning around STEM topics. These skills will serve them for many years to come.”
Other goals of the STEM lab are to support the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and to spark greater interest in STEM fields and careers.
This partnership builds upon previous experiences the Connecticut Science Center has provided to EHPS students, including traveling classroom programs and an annual middle school field trip.
“The Science Center is thrilled to expand our partnership and bring science to life in ways that make it meaningful and fun—and help every student see themselves as capable scientists, engineers, and problem solvers,” said Director of Programs Megan Ramer. “Research shows that by middle school, students who feel confident in their STEM abilities are far more likely to stay engaged and pursue those interests. By giving students engaging experiences now, we’re helping them build the critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills that are proven to not only support academic success, but open doors to future opportunities in STEM. We’re proud to partner with East Hartford to help continue boosting STEM learning and inspire the next generation of innovators in our community.”