TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to execute an agreement, and any necessary amendments, with the California State Library to accept and expend grant funding in the amount of $9,600, for Library STEM kits, for the period ending September 30, 2019; and
Increase appropriations in the General Grants Fund (SR 120) in the Library Services Department (LS) by $9,600, offset by grant revenue. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The Library Services Department (Library) grant application to the California State Library was approved. The Library was awarded grant funding for Learning To Go STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) kits for children, in the amount of $9,600 for the grant period ending September 30, 2019.
With this funding, and as part of the Library’s larger effort to increase Long Beach children’s exposure to science, technology, engineering and mathematics, STEM kits will be created for circulation among families, home-school groups, and other local education providers with limited resources to create a STEM-learning rich environment for children. Each portable STEM kit will contain supplies and instructions for several age-specific projects designed to enhance problem-solving skills and foster creativity and intellectual curiosity. STEM concepts include fractions and ratios, electricity and circuits, vectors and torque, and gravity and entropy. The STEM kits will provide a way to create learning environments in which children are engaged, entertained and excited to learn. Additionally, the Library aims to increase students’ interests in pursuing STEM in higher education and careers.
The grant will provide funding for STEM kit materials and supplies so they can be circulated. Once the grant period ends, STEM kits will continue to be circulated.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Amy R. Webber on February 6, 2019 and by Budget Management Officer Rhutu Amin Gharib on February 20, 2019.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
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