K-8 Programs

The Kindergarten Infectious Diseases and Wellness Collaborative partners with kindergarten teachers in the Memphis area to enhance science education practices and curricula for early learners. Through collaboration from partnering teachers, scientists, and education researchers, we create learning modules that integrate science learning with English language arts, math, and social and emotional learning. This in-school curriculum is teacher-led in which the texts and materials are provided to the partnering schools. 

The St. Jude Afterschool STEMM Clubs allow 5th-grade students to engage in science and engineering concepts in an informal setting. St. Jude conducts this program in partnership with Memphis-Shelby County Schools. The club’s goal is to increase students’ critical thinking skills and interest in STEMM through hands-on projects and challenges. 

Learning in the club begins with an exploration of a patient case study.  

Example: Students take on the role of physician scientists to diagnose a patient with osteosarcoma, a cancer of the bone. The students also learn about several treatment options for these patients. Many children with osteosarcoma require either partial or full amputation of the affected body part. This might result in the need for a prosthetic. Students learn about the challenges of designing prosthetics for young patients who are still growing. As part of the process, students design a functioning prosthetic hand using everyday materials. 

Related Publications: Ayers, Katherine A., Katherine Wade-Jaimes, Lei Wang, Robyn A. Pennella, and Stanley B. Pounds. 2020. “The St. Jude STEM Clubs: An Afterschool STEM Club for Upper Elementary School Students in Memphis, TN.” Journal of STEM Outreach 3 (1): 1-14. https://doi.org/10.15695/jstem/v3i1.13 

Through St. Jude Community Health Clubs, students in grades 6–8 develop interventions to reduce cancer health disparities in their communities. St. Jude conducts this program in partnership with Memphis-Shelby County Schools.