July 24, 2024

Hope Street kids dive into more STEAM adventures during Summer of Science!

Hope Street Margolis Family Center's Summer of Science program has been a whirlwind of learning, creativity and fun for its young participants. Having wrapped its fourth week, Summer of Science has successfully blended hands-on science activities with artistic expression, outdoor adventures, and social interaction—fostering a holistic approach to learning and development.

Weeks 2-3: Engineering, Technology, Nature, and Sustainability

The first weeks saw students explore the world of engineering and sustainability, building their own clocks, designing sustainable house models, and constructing intricate Lego marble mazes. These projects not only honed their critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also encouraged teamwork and effective project planning. The program also incorporated creative outlets like designing paddle boats and engaging in dance and guitar lessons, adding a vibrant and engaging dimension to the experience.

Field trips to the California Science Center, Natural History Museum and the Leonardo Da Vinci exhibit provided students with real-world inspiration and sparked their curiosity. The Da Vinci exhibit showcased sustainable houses, in particular, and ignited their creativity and influenced their own sustainable house models.

The program's focus on nature and recreation was evident in the outdoor games, activities, and a memorable visit to Tanaka Farms. This excursion deepened students’ understanding of the food cycle, the wonders of nature, and the importance of environmental sustainability.


Hope Street Summer Students trying a virtual paddle boat designed by Leonardo Da Vinci	Students designed their own miniature skate parks	Students learn about sustainable farming at Tanaka Farms

A student focuses on designing his sculpture that he will be making later in the summer	Students busily engaged on their Lego marble mazes	Students mimic a polar bear at the Natural History museum

Week 4: Biology and Oceanography

Week four saw students plunge into the world of biology and oceanography where they engaged in hands-on dissections of squid and perch, learning about their unique anatomical features and adaptations. They also practiced the Japanese fish printing technique, gyotaku, creating fish images on tote bags using ink and silicone replicas. These activities exposed them to the complexities of marine organisms and the practice of dissection, potentially inspiring future careers in science.

The program continued to nurture students’ artistic side with ballet, guitar, and modern dance classes, as well as creative activities like scratchboard etching and clay modeling. These activities not only fostered their artistic expression but also enhanced their fine motor skills and dexterity.

Excursions to Eaton Canyon and the Aquarium of the Pacific further enriched their learning experience. The hike to the waterfall tested their physical limits, while the aquarium visit brought their week's studies to life. Both experiences fostered their desire to explore and inquire, skills that Hope Street actively promotes.

Beyond the academic and recreational activities, Hope Street's Summer of Science program prioritizes the socio-emotional well-being of its students. The program provides a safe and supportive environment where they can make lasting friendships, build confidence, and feel valued. The joy and engagement observed in the students are a testament to the program's success in creating a positive and enriching experience.

Summer of Science continues to be an important part of Hope Street’s whole-child/whole-family approach to improving the health and well-being of families in the community. By combining academic rigor with creative expression, outdoor adventures, and social interaction, the program not only equips students with valuable knowledge and skills but also fosters their overall well-being and prepares them for a brighter future.


Students work in pairs to make the initial cuts on their squids	A student presents the inside of the perch after making shallow cuts to keep the internal organs intact	A student displays her finished gyotaku print on her canvas tote bag

A student shows off her gyotaku print along with a painted ocean background	A teacher demonstrates the process of creating a gyotaku using ink, a brayer, and a fish replica	A student etches away at a scratchboard to reveal a jellyfish

Students and staff pose for a picture under the Eaton Canyon waterfall	A student touches a shark egg presented by an Aquarium of the Pacific employee	A student uses two fingers to touch a sea anemone

Summer of Science is 100% supported by philanthropy.

You can continue advancing Hope Street’s transformative health care programs by donating today or by attending the Champions for Children Dinner on Thursday, September 12 at Jonathan Club in downtown Los Angeles.

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