STEM Discovery Program

For the 2026–27 school year, 4C STEM Club offers weekly in-person STEM programs for students in 4th through 12th grade, running from September 2026 through April 2027. Every Friday between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM, students participate in four programs each month—one focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).

These programs are held in and around Buffalo Grove and are designed to engage students through a variety of experiences, including learning and presentation, field trips and real-world applications, guest speaker sessions with industry experts, hands-on activities, and the creative integration of STEM and Art (STEAM).

Through these programs, students gain hands-on STEM experience, build teamwork and problem-solving skills, develop creativity and leadership, and gain confidence in presenting their ideas. They also explore real-world STEM applications, engage with professionals, and apply what they learn in meaningful, practical ways.

The STEM Challenge Program at 4C STEM Club is designed for students in 4th through 12th grade who are eager to explore STEM through hands-on learning, team challenges and competitions. The club provides guidance and registers student groups, while parents take the lead in planning, preparation, and managing participation for all activities outside the regular club curriculum. 

Competitions Included in the STEM Challenge Program:

• Lake County Robotics Competition
• You Be the Solution Challenge Competition
• Future City Competition
• IJAS Science Fair
   

Through this program, students gain hands-on STEM experience, develop teamwork and problem-solving skills, and build confidence by creating and presenting projects. They participate in competitions, explore real-world STEM applications, engage with experts, and foster creativity and leadership, all with guidance from the club and support from parents.  To learn more about these competitions, visit our STEM Competitions page. 

The Executive Board of 4C STEM Club is composed of dedicated student leaders in grades 9 and above who serve as program leads and actively contribute to the planning, coordination, and execution of our STEM and community initiatives. As part of this leadership role, Executive Board members are provided with verified leadership service, which may be applied toward leadership recognition programs and awards.

4C STEM Club offers:

• Structured leadership opportunities.
• Ongoing guidance, mentorship, and role-specific direction.
• Official verification and required recommendation and participation letters to support award applications.
   

Through this program, students gain meaningful leadership experience, strengthen their resumes, and develop skills in leadership, teamwork, communication, project management, and service-driven innovation.

The Youth Volunteer Program at 4C STEM Club is open to students in grades 9 and above who are interested in supporting our STEM programs and community events. Youth Volunteers assist with club activities, workshops, outreach events, and community initiatives under the guidance of club leadership. While this role does not include leadership positions, it provides meaningful hands-on volunteer experience in a collaborative STEM-focused environment.

Youth Volunteers receive:

• Verified volunteer service hours for event and program support.
• Opportunities to contribute to STEM education and community service.
• Supervised, age-appropriate responsibilities at club and community events.
   

This program provides students with a supportive platform to give back to the community, explore service-oriented STEM initiatives, and build a strong foundation for future leadership opportunities.