STEM PROGRAMS

STEM Programs

The Learning Fund Foundation has raised over $1 million to support educational innovation in District 103. Please help us continue our efforts by donating or volunteering to our programs. Have an idea for new programming? Please reach out to discuss your idea further.

Shark Tank and Junior Innovators Program

The Learning Fund Foundation’s Shark Tank and Junior Innovators programs provide STEAM-based learning designed to cultivate entrepreneurial and start-up skills among young inventors in the Lincolnshire-Prairie View 103 School District. Offered as after-school activities, Shark Tank at Daniel Wright Middle School is tailored for students in grades 6–8, offering a more rigorous curriculum and hands-on experience in entrepreneurship. Junior Innovators at Half Day Elementary School introduces students in grades 3–5 to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, preparing them to confidently engage in more advanced innovation challenges in middle school.

First Lego League Competition

The Learning Fund Foundation started the FIRST® LEGO® Robotics team at Half Day School to give students hands-on experience with STEM, creativity, and problem-solving. Through robotics challenges, students build critical thinking, teamwork, and presentation skills while gaining confidence and a lasting interest in science and technology.

IJAS Science Excellence Awards

The Learning Fund Foundation, in collaboration with the Illinois Junior Academy of Science, created the Awards for Excellence in Science to encourage students to engage in STEM projects and recognize creativity, innovation, and excellence in scientific research. 

STEAM Conferences

The Learning Fund Foundation hosted a STEAM conference to inspire students to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Hands-on workshops led by local businesses gave students practical experience and sparked their interest in STEAM fields.