Mesquite STEAM Center Hosts Christmas Camp

By JIM LUKSIC

The Progress

The Mesquite STEAM Center hosted a week-long Christmas Camp for children from Dec. 18-22 during winter break from school.

Nikki Meador is the new director of the educational venue, whose acronym stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art (and Agriculture) and Math.
“The event is similar to other activities here, but with a holiday theme,” said Meador.
Meador took over the reins of the center last week, replacing former director Lizz Larson.

On Wednesday, Meador and STEAM Center Manager Denisse Jimenez were helping four children use computers to create ornaments with the Tinkercad program. Also on hand was Jenette Loosle, a program facilitator.

Jimenez, who happened to be celebrating her birthday that day, said the camp combines technology and crafts, which includes using a 3D printer. During the week, students constructed a gingerbread house (with crackers and sand) and did reindeer races.

“I like getting kids into technology,” said Jimenez, who recentlly earned a degree in computer science at Utah Tech University in St. George. She is also an instructor with the LEGO toys and for an art club, which comprises 15 kids who participate in an hour-long class. “My main passion is getting children involved.”

The Christmas Camp consisted of middle-school students who registered beforehand, though Meador pointed out that walk-ins were welcomed and accommodated. “Next year, we hope to expand to include additional students,” she said.

The ultimate goal is to foster a fun and educational environment for students, Meador explained, so they learn skills required to work after high school graduation.
“As the students participate in the different activities, they are developing tech skills needed for the future – as well as soft skills like communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity,” she said.

The facility’s technological tools appeal to Meador, she explained, because she loves tinkering in general.

Meador, who taught for 23 years in the Clark County School District, said her tasks – aside from overseeing the Christmas Camp – involve helping with the curriculum and securing grants.

One of her goals for 2024 is to conduct more camps. “We’re definitely going to have a camp during spring break,” she said.
As for her new job, she likes everything about it. “Hard to say anything that I don’t enjoy,” she said.

The STEAM Center, located in Mesquite Plaza on Mesquite Boulevard, officially opened its doors in August. Among the hands-on training amenities at its disposal are robotic toys, a podcasting studio, hydroponics garden, a LEGO table, virtual-reality network, and the aforementioned 3D printers.

The center is open to all area residents including Mesquite, Bunkerville, Moapa Valley and the Arizona Strip. For more information call 702-613-0699.