Water Wonders

_Girls in STEM______

Girls in STEM Water Wonders

October 18-20, 2024

Calling all aspiring young scientists! Dive into the exciting world of water careers with our Girls in STEM: Water Wonders program. Join us on an unforgettable journey where 4th-8th grade female and non-binary students explore careers in river restoration and water filtration. Get ready to roll up your sleeves as participants engage firsthand with women leading a stream restoration project, delve into stream surveying, and embark on an eye-opening tour of a water treatment facility.

Throughout the program, inspirational women in hydrology share their stories, offering invaluable insights into navigating male-dominated industries. Empower your child to dream big and discover a newfound passion for the fascinating world of water science!

Rates & Amenities

This program is subsidized on a sliding fee scale for local families – see the chart below. This price includes lodging in our dorms, all meals, programming and use of supplies and technology.

Free & Reduced Lunch rate$60
CHP+ (Child Health Plan Plus) rate$190
Fully Pay rate$350

Scholarships & Financial Assistance

If you have a financial barrier, please apply for a scholarship for the Girls in STEM program. All scholarships will be determined on a rolling basis and offered based on financial need.

Transportation

We offer free transportation to local students at Dillon Valley Elementary and Silverthorne Elementary!

  • KSS pickup students from school on Friday afternoon from Silverthorne Elementary and Dillon Valley Elementary at 4:00pm.
  • Parent Pickup at KSS on Sunday at 12pm or Silverthorne Elementary and Dillon Valley Elementary at 1:00pm.

Packing List

Program Schedule


Please note that this program schedule may change based on the availability of our STEM Mentors.

KSS will be providing meals from dinner on Friday night to lunch on Sunday afternoon.

Friday

Oct. 18
4:00pmCheck-in begins
4:00pmLocal Pick-ups
5:00pmCheck-in ends
5:30pmFemale Empowerment Conversation
6:00pmDinner
7:00pmInteractive Water Activity
8:30pmHead back to dorms
9:30pmLights Out

Saturday

Oct. 19
8:00amBreakfast
9:00amOverview of the day
9:15amStream Restoration Project & Lunch in the field
3:00pmMentor Connection Activity
5:00pmFlex Time
6:00pmDinner
7:00pmMovie
8:30pmHead back to dorms
9:00pmLights Out

Sunday

Oct. 20
8:00amBreakfast
9:00amOverview of the day
9:15amWater Filter Project Work Time
11:00amFemale Empowerment Activity
11:45amFamilies arrive for checkout
12:00pmProject Presentations for families
12:30pmFamily departures
1:00pmLocal drop-offs

STEM Mentors

A variety of female professionals will be interacting with all participating girls throughout the weekend.

2024 Water Wonders Mentors:

Laura Lynch

Maddie Toolen

Vanessa Logsdon

Sam Bagge

Returning Rapids Project

Sam Bagge is a Master’s student at the University of Utah working with the non-profit The Returning Rapids Project. This project aims to document and calculate the amount of sediment deposited by Lake Powell that is being remobilized into the river system, thus into the reservoir and reducing its water capacity.

Currently living in Moab, Utah, Sam has received degrees in geosciences, geography, and sustainability studies, which translates to his work where equitable, sustainable water solutions for all are at the forefront. “One of my favorite things is working with students and the privilege of inspiring them to understand themselves and the world around them better. This is by empowering each other and learning more about the water systems that our lives rely on.”

    Thank you to our Program Donors


    We are so thankful for the corporate, foundational, and individual supporters of our Girls in STEM program. If you are interested in supporting this program please contact our Development Director, Owen Dodd at ododd@keystonescienceschool.org or call (970)513-5833.

    Xcel Energy
    US Bank
    JP Innovation Project
    The Steadman Clinic and Steadman Phillippon Research Institute
    Denver Water
    Aurora Water
    Oxy Occidental
    Breck Film

    In the words of parents

    “No phones. Dedicated time to focus on self. Reminders about gratitude. Getting in touch with nature. The counselors are strong, sweet, great role models.”

    “My kid looks forward to this every year! It is so important for her to get out of her usual routine and meet new people and get a chance to be on her own.”

    “We love KSS. The growth our kids have each summer is priceless. Thank you for all the hard work, planning and everything that goes into what you do!”

    Check out more All-Girls programs at KSS!


    Adventures is the next step in progression at KSS, and we have girls-only trips coming up next summer!

    We also have more Girls in STEM programs coming up, including Snow Science this winter!

    A girl looks up during an adventure rock climbing day at KSS summer camp.

    All-Girls+ Climbing

    Grades 6th-8th

    All Girls+ Backpacking

    Grades 8-10