Young Minds STEM & Innovation Academy
Learning Beyond the School Day
Hands-on STEM enrichment designed for curious young minds.
Where Curiosity Meets Discovery
Young Minds STEM & Innovation Academy is an after-school STEM enrichment program offered by Young Minds Research Foundation, a North Carolina 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Our program combines coding, engineering, robotics, science, creativity, and project-based learning to help students develop confidence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in a fun and supportive environment.
What Students Will Learn
A rich, hands-on curriculum that turns everyday curiosity into real STEM skills.
Scratch Coding
Build games and animations while learning the fundamentals of programming logic.
LEGO® Engineering
Design, build, and test working machines using hands-on LEGO® building sets.
Robotics
Program robots to move, sense, and solve real-world challenges.
Hands-on Science
Explore chemistry, physics, and biology through fun, safe experiments.
Engineering Challenges
Tackle design problems that spark creativity and critical thinking.
AI Concepts
Discover how artificial intelligence works through age-appropriate activities.
Electronics
Learn about circuits, sensors, and how everyday devices work.
Homework Support
Dedicated time and guidance to complete daily schoolwork.
Teamwork & Leadership
Collaborate on projects that build confidence and communication skills.
A Day at the Academy
Every afternoon balances homework, learning, hands-on projects, and fun.
Why Parents Love Our Program
Our Instructors
Passionate, experienced educators dedicated to helping every child thrive.
STEM Lead Instructor
Program Director
An experienced STEM educator who designs each week's hands-on lessons and leads classroom instruction with a passion for igniting curiosity in young learners.
Robotics & Coding Mentor
STEM Instructor
Guides students through coding and robotics projects, breaking down complex ideas into fun, achievable challenges for every skill level.
Program Assistants
Trained Volunteers
Our supportive team assists with homework help, small-group projects, and supervision to ensure every child receives personalized attention.
Safety & Supervision
Your child's safety is our highest priority. Here's how we keep every student secure.
Attendance Tracking
Every student is checked in and accounted for throughout the program.
Authorized Pickup
Children are only released to parents or guardians on the approved pickup list.
Emergency Contacts
Emergency contact information is collected and kept on hand at all times.
Allergy & Medical Info
Allergy and medical details are gathered during registration for each child's safety.
Trained Staff
Instructors and volunteers are trained, with background checks for staff and volunteers where applicable.
Parent Communication
Parents receive regular updates and important information via email.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grades can attend?
The Young Minds STEM & Innovation Academy is open to students in grades K–5.
When and where does the program meet?
We meet Monday through Friday from 2:40 PM to 5:15 PM at Scroggs Elementary School in Chapel Hill, NC.
Does my child need prior STEM experience?
Not at all! Our program welcomes all skill levels. Lessons are designed to meet children where they are and grow their confidence.
Is a snack provided?
There is a dedicated snack and break time at 4:20 PM each day. Please let us know about any allergies during registration.
What is the daily schedule?
Students check in at 2:40 PM, receive homework support, participate in a STEM lesson and hands-on project, and are picked up by 5:15 PM.
How do I register?
Simply click any "Register Now" button on this page to complete our secure Google registration form.
How will I hear about my child's progress?
Parents receive communication via email, including program updates and important announcements.
Give Your Child a Head Start in STEM
Spots are limited to keep our class sizes small. Reserve your child's place in the Young Minds STEM & Innovation Academy today.
Register NowRegistration opens our secure Google Form.