What is Miners in the Making?
Miners in the Making is a collection of free afterschool STEM programs offered by the Kummer Center for STEM Education at Missouri S&T for Phelps County students. The program includes two tracks: an afterschool program for grades K-6 and the Innovation Academy for grades 7-12.
Who is eligible to participate?
Students in Phelps County, including those from Rolla, Newburg, Phelps County R-III, and St. Patrick schools, as well as homeschool students. The K-6 program serves students ages 5-12, and the Innovation Academy serves students in grades 7-12.
How much does it cost?
Both programs are completely free for eligible families.
Who runs the programs?
Both programs are led by Susan Reisner, a state-certified math expert with a Master of Science in Education. All staff members have completed comprehensive background checks.
How do I sign up my child?
Complete the interest form to receive more information about enrollment and next steps for either program.
Are there opportunities for teens or adults to work with the program?
Yes. Teens 16 and older interested in becoming teachers can gain valuable experience, and we also hire part-time staff and CDL bus drivers. See our job openings page for more information.
What is the Miners in the Making afterschool program?
Miners in the Making is a free afterschool program offered by the Kummer Center for STEM Education at Missouri S&T. It provides hands-on Arts, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (ASTEM) activities for K-6 students in Phelps County.
When and where does the program take place?
The program runs Monday through Friday from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at Missouri S&T's campus in 105 Centennial Hall, located at 300 W. 12th St., Rolla, MO 65409. It operates during the school year (August through May).
How much does the program cost?
The program is completely free for families, thanks to grant funding through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Who is eligible to participate?
The afterschool program is open to K-6 students (ages 5-12) in Phelps County, including students from Rolla, Newburg, Phelps County R-III, and St. Patrick schools, as well as homeschool students.
Is transportation provided?
School district bus transportation is currently only available for Rolla and Newburg students. All parents are responsible for picking up their children by 6:00 p.m. on program days.
What types of activities will my child participate in?
Students engage in a variety of hands-on ASTEM activities, including manufacturing components, robotics, Future City challenges, microscopy, and more.
Who supervises the program?
The program is led by Susan Reisner, a state-certified math expert with a Master of Science in Education. All staff members have completed comprehensive background checks.
Is academic support available?
Yes. Missouri S&T students provide homework help and tutoring before students participate in the day's ASTEM activities.
How many spots are available?
Space is limited to 100 students.
How do I sign up my child?
Complete the interest form to receive more information about enrollment.
Is this a licensed childcare program?
Yes. We are a fully licensed child care provider that adheres to strict safety standards with structured sign-in/sign-out protocols and emergency plans.
What is the Innovation Academy?
The Miners in the Making: Innovation Academy is an advanced STEM afterschool program for eligible Phelps County students in grades 7-12. It is designed for students who enjoy hands-on learning, engineering design, technology, problem-solving, teamwork, and exploring STEM careers through real-world projects.
Where is the program located?
The Innovation Academy will be held in Missouri S&T's Protoplex, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to engineering, research, innovation, and advanced manufacturing. The Protoplex is located on the Missouri S&T campus and is separate from the main Miners in the Making location.
What will students do?
Students will complete Project Lead The Way (PLTW) modules, design, build, test, and improve solutions to engineering challenges, earn industry-recognized certifications, learn from Missouri S&T faculty, staff, and other STEM professionals, and explore engineering, advanced manufacturing, and related STEM careers. Additional activities and certifications may be added throughout the year as new opportunities become available.
Why is this program only offered to grades 7-12?
The curriculum, certifications, and experiences are specifically designed for older students and require a greater level of independence and commitment.
Why is regular attendance important?
The Innovation Academy follows a cohort model, with projects that build from one session to the next, so regular attendance is essential for student success. Students should attend at least three days each week, arrive by 4:00 p.m., and remain until the program ends at 5:45 p.m. Because the program is located in the Protoplex, access to the building is controlled for security. To minimize disruptions, students will be dismissed together at the end of the program unless an emergency arrangement has been approved in advance.
How will transportation work?
Transportation plans are being finalized and may vary by school district. Students must be picked up at 5:45 p.m. each day. Additional transportation information will be shared with enrolled families before the program begins.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. The Innovation Academy is offered at no cost to eligible students through the Miners in the Making Afterschool Program.
How many students will be accepted?
Enrollment is limited to 30 students to provide individualized support and meaningful hands-on learning experiences.
Is this a one-year program?
Students may continue in the Innovation Academy for multiple years. The cohort model allows students to build on their knowledge, technical skills, and career readiness as they progress through middle and high school.
Will students be using college-level equipment?
Students will participate in age-appropriate learning experiences while benefiting from the Protoplex environment and resources. Activities and equipment will be selected based on students' ages, training, and safety requirements.
How do I find out more about the program?
Families interested in the Innovation Academy should email Susan Reisner at susan.reisner@mst.edu for more information or to inquire about availability.