KU centers team up to introduce local students to STEM fields in physical performance
LAWRENCE — A new partnership within the Achievement & Assessment Institute (AAI) at the University of Kansas blends STEM education and physical performance training to offer middle school and high school students hands-on experience in sports medicine, exercise science, and strength and conditioning.
The Center for Educational Opportunity Programs (CEOP) and the Well-Fit Center for Youth Wellness and Fitness (Well-Fit) have partnered to support students in CEOP’s Upward Bound and GEAR UP programs through Jayhawk Performance, a Well-Fit initiative that bridges physical performance and educational opportunity.
“This partnership is about more than physical fitness,” said Quincy Johnson, assistant director of the Jayhawk Athletic Performance Laboratory and program coordinator of Jayhawk Performance. “It’s about exposing students to the science behind performance — sports medicine, strength and conditioning, and the STEM fields that support them.”
High school students in Shawnee, Douglas, Leavenworth and Wyandotte counties will benefit from the partnership through an Upward Bound summer program. The Pathways to Success: From Health to High Performance program will introduce potential careers in STEM — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — and human performance while promoting healthy habits.
“We’re really excited to offer students not just an academic class where they prepare for the upcoming school year, but a hands-on course where they can explore a career path and build foundational STEM skills,” said Marilynn Chavez, assistant director of Upward Bound Math & Science.
For middle school students in the Kansas City metropolitan area, GEAR UP KCK and GEAR UP KCMO launched a parallel program with age-appropriate content and instruction.
“This program gives our students early access to fitness fundamentals,” said Korri Hall, director of GEAR UP KCMO, “how to play safely, lift properly and understand the importance of nutrition.”
In addition to physical training, students will engage with university faculty and staff and gain hands-on experience with fitness technologies. The goal is to foster meaningful connections between physical fitness, science and future career opportunities.
“These programs offer something I don’t think you’ll find at most institutions — early, hands-on exposure to STEM and performance science through a structured academic partnership,” Johnson said.
By blending education, wellness and hands-on experience, this partnership gives students meaningful career exploration opportunities. The partnership also highlights how AAI centers break down silos to deliver student-centered experiences that inspire curiosity, bolster confidence and prepare students for the future they choose.