About Us

The Umpqua Valley STEAM Hub was one of six regional hubs awarded a total of $2.8 million in state funds in February 2014. The Umpqua Valley STEAM Hub was awarded $325,000 to build a solid infrastructure to provide STEAM education in Douglas County. The hubs represent 36 counties and are working, among other goals, to double the number of students who earn post-secondary degree requiring proficiency in STEM fields. Our hub is targeted to impact Douglas County youth and provide professional development support for adults serving youth.

What is STEAM?

An approach to teaching and lifelong learning that emphasizes the natural interconnectedness of the five separate STEAM disciplines–Science, Technology, Engineering, Artistic Innovation, and Mathematics. The connections are made explicit through collaboration between educators resulting in a real and appropriate context built into instruction, curriculum, and assessment. The common element of problem-solving is emphasized across all STEAM disciplines allowing students to discover, explore, and apply critical thinking skills as they learn.

Why STEAM?

Science, Education, Engineering and Mathematics are four crucial 21st century skills with a high demand in the workforce. In Douglas County, the “A” in STEAM represents the added discipline of art. It recognizes the link between STEM subjects and the artistic component of creative thinking and innovation.

Our Goals

Umpqua Valley STEAM Hub goals include actively engaging schools, local businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies as partners to work toward:

  • Providing all youth with opportunities to learn 21st Century skills and aspire to STEAM-related careers
  • Empowering youth, their parents, and other youth serving adults throughout the region
  • Inspiring curiosity through engaging, real-life STEAM learning experiences
  • Building a sustainable organization that strengthens existing resources and collaborations and attracts increased investments in STEAM learning in the region

The Team

Teresa Middleton

Director

Jeff Plummer

Professional Development, Lending Library Manager

Amanda Wade

Project Assistant

Questions?

Please contact us with any questions you might have regarding your local STEAM Hub’s lending library, professional development, lessons plans, events and more.

Questions?

Please contact us with any questions you might have regarding your local STEAM Hub’s lending library, professional development, lessons plans, events and more.