Transform Your Classroom with UH’s Innovative Toolkits for Teachers: Elevate Your STEM Lessons Today! | University of Hawaiʻi System News

The University of Hawaiʻi System’s STEM Pre-Academy is ramping up its offerings for K-12 educators in the 2025-26 school year. They’re expanding their Toolkits for Teachers Lending Library, which provides free, hands-on STEM resources. This includes everything from marine science kits to wind turbines, aiming to enhance classroom experiences.

The library boasts nearly 100 toolkits that cover various subjects in science, technology, engineering, and math. Teachers can borrow equipment like 3D printers, microscopes, and robotics kits. These tools allow students to dive into real scientific inquiries, encouraging them to ask questions and analyze data.

Lauren Kaupp, the director of the UH STEM Pre-Academy, emphasizes the importance of these resources: “They give students the chance to be scientists and engineers by engaging them in hands-on learning.”

Randall Shinn, a curriculum coach at ʻIlima Intermediate School, has been using these resources for 12 years. He highlights how tools—like the wave tank and hydroponic system—spark excitement in students. “Seeing something new always boosts their engagement,” he says.

This initiative not only aids in education but also connects students to local research. Kaupp notes that some toolkits, such as those focused on deep-sea ecology and coral bleaching, come directly from UH researchers. “Bringing current UH research into classrooms is an incredible opportunity,” she adds.

Studies show that hands-on learning significantly improves student engagement and retention. According to a recent survey, 91% of teachers report that interactive resources help maintain students’ attention. With this in mind, the STEM Pre-Academy aims to reach even more teachers by growing their toolkit collection and raising awareness.

The office at Mānoa Innovation Center is open weekdays for toolkits to be picked up and returned. For teachers looking to explore these resources, it’s best to contact the office in advance to check availability.

For more details or to check out toolkits, visit the UH STEM Pre-Academy website.

The STEM Pre-Academy is also keen on collaborating with UH researchers to develop new educational tools. This partnership not only enriches the curriculum but also strengthens the connection between academia and local classrooms.

As education continues to evolve, initiatives like the UH STEM Pre-Academy play a vital role in inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators in Hawaiʻi.

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