STEAMwhiz - The STEM Learning Lab: Creating Confident, Young Problem Solvers Welcome to STEAMwhiz - The STEM Learning Lab, where we inspire the next generation of innovators through hands-on learning experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). Founded in the Capital District of New York, we bring the excitement of the lab directly to your classroom with our in-person labs and workshops. Our mission is to nurture curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills in students of all ages. What We Offer: Interactive Workshops: Our comprehensive programs include standards-aligned STEM workshops and hands-on classroom labs for local schools. Our workshops are designed to engage students in hands-on activities and experiments, making STEM concepts come to life. From fundamental concepts of magnetism and energies to more advanced robotic and engineering challenges, we provide immersive experiences that spark a love for learning. Other programs include: After-School Enrichment, Summer, and Break Camps at your location or ours! Hands-on STEM Core Labs: Grade Levels: 1st- 5th Length: 1 hour Size: 1 classroom unit per lab (max. 25 students) Prices: Starting at $250 per lab. Multi-Consecutive lab discounts are available at the time of booking. Highlighted Hands-on STEM Core Labs: Light It Up! Light is Weird. This hands-on lab investigates what light is and how we can control it through blocking, bouncing, and bending. Check out colorful shadows and rainbows in this FUNdamental light exploration lab. Suggested Grade Levels: 1st-3rd. Relevant NYS Standard(s): 1-PS4-2, 1-PS4-3, 4-PS4-2 MagLab: Magnetic Exploration Are all metals magnetic? Are all metals magnets? Using the Scientific Method to guide your learning, investigate the properties of magnets, and determine which materials are magnetic. Explore magnetic properties using magnets to attract and repel each other. Experiment with magnetic levitation and electromagnetism. Suggested Grade Levels: 3rd, 4th. Relevant NYS Standard(s): 3-PS2-3, 3-PS2-4 Energy Lab: Potential vs. Kinetic This energy lab investigates the relationship between Potential and Kinetic Energy, the Law of Conservation of Energy, and how energy is transferred between objects in a system by designing, testing, and modifying a "spool racer" powered by elastic energy. Students will design a "racer" that converts elastic potential energy into mechanical kinetic energy. Brainstorm, prototype, modify, test, and redesign variations to the basic "spool racer" design to meet different design criteria. "Show What You Know" in the ultimate problem-solving challenge, as your "spool racer" is put to the test and proves how a simple toy can be engineered to its best ability! I.D.E.A.S High-Tech MakerLabs – Inventing, Designing, & Engineering for All Students Grade Levels: 2nd- 8th Length: 1-1.5 hours Size: 1 classroom unit per lab (max. 25 students) Prices: Starting at $300 per lab. Multi-Consecutive lab discounts are available at the time of booking. Themes Include: Robotics, Drones, 3D Printing, Coding, Physical Computing Whether you choose our STEM Core Labs or High-Tech Maker Labs, all programs feature: Standards-Aligned Curriculum: the New York State P-12 Science Learning Standards and/or the Engineering Design, and Computer Science + Digital Fluency Standards. Expert Educators: Making complex concepts accessible and fun Convenient and Accessible: We bring all necessary materials and equipment to your location. For more information about our offerings, call 518-512-9595 or email: info@steamwhiz.com

Page Turner Adventures’ Story-Powered shows are a unique blend of Immersive Theater, Circus, and non-stop Audience Participation that take a book from the PAGE TO STAGE! Every child in the audience becomes the hero of the story, making choices, solving problems, and impacting the outcome. It’s a visceral experience that turbo charges a passion for reading and writing that kids will never forget. PLUS…. Every teacher at the show gets a LITERACY WONDER BUNDLE link which includes an Ebook, Animated Video, Audiobook, Craft, Writing Guide, Reader’s Theater Script or PDF Puppet Kit all BASED ON THE SHOW the kids just saw! So the laughter and learning continue long after the curtain closes.

Explore Frederic Church’s masterwork, Olana, through a field trip, virtual tour, or professional development! During each program, participants learn more about the art, culture, and history of Olana and the Hudson River Valley through place-based learning activities and lessons. Each offering can be modified to suit classroom and curriculum needs. FIELD TRIPS include a historic house tour and Landscape Walk and cost $10 per student. Add-on art workshops cost an additional $5 per student and include all artmaking materials. Students will leave with a completed work of art. All themes can be tailored to meet specific curriculum goals and student needs. Themes include: 1. "Place as Inspiration" where students learn how Church and his contemporaries were inspired by the Hudson Valley before exploring how they can connect to and advocate for important places in their own lives and communities. 2. "Land as Canvas" where students consider nature as a source of creativity and invention in Olana's designed landscape, collecting natural materials to observe patterns in local flora and fauna. 3. "Sketching as Seeing" where students dive into Frederic Church’s artistic process and experiment with his outdoor sketching (plein air) techniques. 4. "Adventures in Architecture" where students learn more about how global architectural traditions influenced Frederic Church’s design of Olana’s historic house and explore his handling of scale, engineering, and design. VIRTUAL TOURS can be tailored to meet specific curriculum goals and classroom needs and conducted via Zoom or Google Meet, and other platforms by request. All virtual sessions are designed to be 1 hour in length and can be scaled for various age ranges, groups, and audiences. All field trips and virtual tours are for grades PreK-12 and other education groups. $5-$15 per student. FREE for schools in Columbia and Greene Counties. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT days for teachers and administrators can be booked upon request and include a tour of the historic house and landscape, a workshop session, and use of the Wagon House Education Center. Please contact education@olana.org to learn more.

Growing up a reluctant reader himself, it took Eric Luper a long time to learn to love reading and writing. Join Eric on a fun (and sometimes funny) journey through his past challenges as well as the current techniques he uses to write books for Scholastic, Cartoon Network, DC, Disney and others. Students will learn about first drafts, revision, brainstorming and other important techniques… and learn if they have what it takes to be a writer.

Annie & the Hedonists is a quartet, sometimes quintet with drums, from the NYS Capital District. The band performs vintage blues and jazz as well as a variety of acoustic Americana music. We feature multi-instrumentalists, stand up bass, piano, clarinet, banjo, and guitar and an amazing lead singer, and lots of harmony. Annie sings songs of the great female blues and jazz artists of the 1920s through 50s as well as contemporary folk, gospel, and rhythm and blues. The band offers workshops on the roots of blues and jazz, hootenanny sing-a-long, songs of Bob Dylan, and many others. Also available is a trio or Annie & Jonny duet. A residency could include interactive dialogue and hands on participation with students about the band members instrument, what it is like to be a professional musician, participatory singing and playing, with the goal of encouraging students to continue or initiate interest in music.

The Story Ship takes audiences on a one-of-a-kind interactive adventure. Each performance blends comedy, theater, magic, music, robots, animation, and immersive video to create an unforgettable experience for kids. Students don’t just watch—they actively participate by solving puzzles, helping with magic tricks, dancing to upbeat music, and interacting with animated characters throughout the story. With a giant video screen and incredible props, every show feels like stepping into a larger-than-life world. We currently offer five exciting programs: Diggery Digger’s Dino Adventure (Science) The Great Pirate Race (Math) Aliens Alive! (STEAM) Super Me! (Anti-Bullying) The Rainbow Thief (Art)

Reggie Harris has been affiliated with the John F Kennedy Center’s Partners in Education program for over two decades, offering both multimedia performances for students and communities as well as in-depth workshops for educators at all grade levels. His writing, research, fieldwork and recordings have amassed an amazing repertoire of African American music, blending spirituals and freedom songs, the old with the new. Mentored early on by Dr. Charles Blockson and by using music and storytelling to create captivating performances for audiences of all ages, he has raised awareness of the Underground Railroad in young school audiences, college symposiums and adult concerts. • Arts-in-Education Performance Offerings "Music and the Underground Railroad" (Grades K-12) The Underground Railroad is one of the most important chapters in American History. This engaging, interactive concert of songs, stories and narratives about slavery and the quest for freedom reveals the hope, power and eventually, the triumph that was accomplished and shared by a network of multicultural allies. Through song, story and audience involvement, Music & the Underground Railroad provides an understanding of the secrets and passion of this powerful era. - Curriculum Areas:  Social studies, cultural geography, history, music, storytelling - Study Guide Link:  http://loydartists.com/images/resources/UndergroundRRStudyGuide.pdf - VideoLink: (starts with lower elementary and then changes to upper elementary around the 9:15 mark):  https://youtu.be/yu1Gzic1L14 "How Martin Climbed the Mountain!" (Grades 3-12) Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. had a dream, but he did not dream alone. This program is an interactive multi-media presentation honoring the artists, poets, educators, inventors, explorers, scientists and other important contributors to the life and culture of America and the world, and who influenced and informed the work of Dr. King. Using stories and music, Reggie highlights how the contributions of Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Benjamin Banneker, Satchel Paige and others helped young Martin become a man who added to the fabric of our nation and who changed the world. - Curriculum Areas:  Social studies, cultural geography, history, music, storytelling - Study Guide Link: https://loydartists.com/images/resources/HowMartinClimbedPerfguide2019.pdf - VideoLink: https://vimeo.com/452762352 • Student Workshops Elementary: "Exploring the Underground Railroad in Song & Story and Classroom Interaction" "The Story of Children’s Impact on the Modern Civil Rights Movement / The Birmingham Children’s March" Middle: "Get On Board the Freedom Train  (Exploring the Underground Railroad)" "Keep Your Eyes On The Prize (AMERICAN EXPERIENCES IN CIVIL RIGHTS)" • Kennedy Center Professional Development for Teachers "Sing to Freedom: Music & Stories of the Underground Railroad" This proven in-service workshop offers a “hands on – classroom ready” historical and musical workshop on the Underground Railroad. Teachers receive valuable tools for building the knowledge base of students through effective art based curriculum connected lessons designed to open classroom study to a more vibrant exploration of history, music and language. Copies of the highly praised CD “Steal Away,” and an extensive teaching guide are included. The workshop explores the history of the Antebellum time period in America and provides information and context on how music and culture have been instrumental throughout history. Learning to sing, write, and update “code songs” based on historical words and phrases along with contemporary composition brings together both the musical and historical material contained in the workshop.

Stitch Buffalo is excited to share our love of textile arts and provide instruction to learners of all ages and skill levels. When you book a class, a Stitch Buffalo instructor will come to your location and provide comprehensive instruction to your group. All supplies for the project are included. Participants will learn fundamental techniques while developing design and collaborative skills in a relaxed environment that encourages exploration and personal expression. Our rextile art projects/skills reflect traditional techniques used in many cultures from around the world. These include: 1. Hand Embroidery 2. Block Printing 3. Pom-Pom Making 4. Jump Rope Making 5. Stencil and Appliqué 6. Macrame 7. Weaving For each of the seven core disciplines, we offer three related projects that correspond to different ages and ability levels: beginner (elementary school); intermediate (middle school); and advanced (high school through adult). We also provide information on the cultural context of each project, including how people from various cultures are practicing these traditional techniques today—right here in New York.

I provide paintings, art prints, and photography services directly to clients. My work is featured in a number of private collections within (and beyond) Western New York. In 2016, I founded Avery & Harlow to grow my art business. I have individual and commercial clients, including Meet & Eat Charcuterie, Magic Bear Beer Cellar, Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House, Trocaire College, Canisius University, and TEAM VIA (New York City Real Estate Advisors). I've donated art to Lollypop Farm Humane Society of Greater Rochester, Massachusetts Avenue Project, Rochester Contemporary Art Center (as part of the 2023 and 2024 6x6 fundraiser exhibition) and the WNY Women's Foundation. In addition, I'm a former instructor (specializing in business and marketing) for the Arts Management Program at University at Buffalo. I'm also a Teaching Artist and marketing consultant for GWFA Gallery in Hamburg, New York.

1. "Disability is O.K.!" (Openness and Kindness) is a disability awareness presentation with interactive theatre that can be modified for different age groups. Using books and resources as a launching point, sharing our story, showing our mobility devices and real life examples, we will create a safe space to ask questions, be curious and learn about difference. Students and facilitators will create good/bad scenarios about life where we learn what really matters... being OPEN and KIND. Both Sofiya Cheyenne and her friends have dwarfism and they have been sharing their story to teach youth all over New York! We bring an incredible amount of knowledge since both of our experiences are so unique. Assembly style: can do the whole student body but must be separated based on age. Must be within a 3hr window of time. (Example- 9am-9:45 prek-1st grade / 10am-10:45am 2nd and 3rd grade / 11am-11:45am 4th and 5th grade) Classroom style: smaller and more intimate conversations and play! Can do up to two to four 45 min sessions in a 4hr hour window. Must be within a 4hr window. (Example- 9am-9:45 Kindergarten / 10am-10:45am 3rd grade / 11am-11:45am 4th grade / 12-12:45pm 5th grade) Workshops are contingent on size of class / age and AV equipment materials available. 2. "And SEEN" is a student centered theatre class that will teach disability culture and access, empathy, leadership and other important life skills.. Through improvisation, I AM Poems and theatrical expression we have created a hands-on approach to learning about the self and our impact in the world. Using exercises such improv, meaningful play, creative writing, and storytelling, we build self-esteem and confidence in our students so they can tackle the world like the incredible leaders they are! With empathy and empowerment at the center of this workshop the students will be SEEN in their craft, in their peers, and in themselves. Workshops are subject to change based on age and size of group. I can even adjust my lesson to the specific needs of students ( i.e. bullying, self awareness, social awareness, social/emotional skills, confidence, leadership, team building ) Weekly rate - $2,500 for four to five 1 hr sessions with the same classroom Sofiya is a New York based multi-disciplinary performance artist, teaching artist, and disability advocate/consultant. She has appeared on television shows such as “At Home With Amy Sedaris” on TrueTV, “StartUP” on Netflix, and “Loudermilk” on AmazonPrime. She is passionate in her advocacy as her advisor roles in ADAptNYC 2030 Steering Committee, Access Council for ART NY and the Co-Chair of The Dwarf Artist Coalition of Little People of America. She has educated all school age youth about theater, disability culture and accessibility with her work at New Victory Theater, GirlBeHeard, EPIC Players and Queens Theater. Sofiya encourages the power of community, self-expression and storytelling. Her lessons are centered on themes of identity, and inclusive language and as a result, students build empathy for their friends and thinking through an anti-bullying lens. Sofiya believes engaging students about her disability and the use of “meaningful play” is the best way to bring up our future leaders of the world!! www.sofiyacheyenne.com

The Zuzu Acrobats are a world-renowned performance troupe that brings the vibrant energy and rich cultural heritage of African acrobatics to audiences around the globe. With roots deeply embedded in traditional East African arts, the Zuzu Acrobats combine breathtaking acrobatics, high-flying stunts, and awe-inspiring athleticism with an infectious enthusiasm that captivates audiences of all ages. We have performed at over 500 schools in New York State alone! Originating from Kenya and Tanzania, the Zuzu Acrobats have spent years perfecting their craft and honing their skills. Their performances are a seamless blend of agility, strength, balance, and precision, showcasing traditional African music, dance, and costumes. The troupe is committed to not only entertaining but also educating audiences about the rich cultural traditions of Africa. High-Energy Performances: Prepare to be dazzled by gravity-defying flips, contortions, human pyramids, and other incredible stunts. Cultural Immersion: Each show is a vibrant display of African heritage, complete with traditional songs, dances, and attire. Family-Friendly Fun: Perfect for all ages, the Zuzu Acrobats offer a show that is both exhilarating and family-friendly, schools, and community gatherings. Audience Engagement: The Zuzu Acrobats thrive on audience interaction, often involving spectators in their performances to create a truly memorable experience. Booking Information Whether you're looking to add a dynamic element to your event or seeking an unforgettable show for your venue, the Zuzu Acrobats deliver an unparalleled performance that leaves a lasting impression. Their talent, enthusiasm, and cultural richness make them a standout choice for any occasion.

Mylisa Larsen is the author of the novels Playing Through the Turnaround and Quagmire Tiarello Couldn’t Be Better and the picture books All of Those Babies, If I Were A Kangaroo, How To Put Your Parents To Bed and Ho Ho Homework. Her author visits are designed to look at some of the underlying assumptions that cause students to decide that they’re not writers and to give students practical and fun ways of building their skills as writers which they can use immediately. We explore techniques for finding stories and getting started, experiment with how different choices we make shape our work, and talk about techniques for revision and for when writing gets hard. We talk about what the job of an author looks like but also how the skills of creative problem-solving which make up the job of a writer apply to many other fields and endeavors. All programs are tailored to the age of the students. Several different programs available are listed at mylisalarsen.com/visits.