NCMN in partnership with the University of Nebraska Extension Office/4-H program provided remote analysis services through RAIN to youth in Omaha this summer. Fourteen schools and various programs throughout Omaha participated in the Engineering with Nano Power experience. Students were introduced to how specialized nano equipment can be used to analyze environmental materials and new products being developed in our society. Using the XRF a variety of materials were examined and their compositions discussed in the classroom after utilizing the remote technical capabilities of the XRF. Youth were able to connect and relate with a real nanoscientist using the RAIN platform. A variety of questions helped students engage with the remote session such as: Why is analyzing samples important? What can you do with the info? What does this analysis tell us and how do you became a nanoscientist?

Over 190 students, 4th-8th grade, were able to experience the RAIN sessions. We believe the RAIN sessions with enthusiastic teachers and scientists working together can have a positive impact on STEM identity formation and career orientation for youth!

Students, 6-9th grade, participated in a weeklong NanoCamp held in June where UNL faculty and graduate students, NCMN & Bright Lights staff, future science teachers and the Department of Physics & Astronomy all worked together to present an amazing mini-course about nanotechnology at UNL. Topics and supporting activities included nanolight technology, carbon nanotubes, self-assembly, hydrogels, magnetism, soft material robotics, nanocomposites, alternative energy, and of course nano ice cream! Resources and more information about previous camp can be found on the NanoCamps page.

We explored Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) in a week-long partnership with LPS Foundation's new Spark Summer Learning program. NCMN provided a high-energy, fun, and immersive summer-learning experience, centered around the theme of Magnetism, using a variety of science activities for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders. 

Faculty members, and NCMN students and staff provide regular programming during the school year for a Nanoscience After School Program at Culler Middle School. One hour presentations are given to students who had limited knowledge of nanoscience. Information includes videos, hands-on activities, giveaways and discussions of nano applications which provides a broad overview of nanoscience/nanotechnology as a field with many career opportunities. Students gain a more comprehensive understanding through activities that introduce them to the unique properties at the nanoscale. Professors presenting are from the Chemistry, Engineering, and Physics departments with help from NCMN Undergraduate Outreach Fellows and staff. This year a Science Fair was added to give students a venue to share what they had learned during the semester. Videos are at https://mediahub.unl.edu/channels/313.