Fifty local students today celebrated the end of the 2026 Parkridge Summer Learning Experience. Over five weeks, they explored science, technology, engineering and mathematics
(STEM) through hands-on projects, engaging field trips and programs made possible
by Washtenaw Community College, its partners and other community organizations.
Hosted at the Parkridge Community Center in Ypsilanti, the annual summer experience immerses youth ages 6–12 in STEM learning led by certified teachers. Through engaging lessons and project-based experiences, students cultivated curiosity, developed confidence in their academic abilities, strengthened problem-solving skills and gained exposure to future educational and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
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Students explored a wide range of STEM concepts through engaging classroom instruction and immersive learning experiences at destinations including WCC’s Advanced Transportation Center, the Eastern Michigan University STEM-Ed Institute, the Michigan Science Center and the University of Michigan.
They also participated in financial literacy workshops, investigated environmental science, received swimming lessons and engaged in library-based learning activities, all while building meaningful connections with educators and community partners from across Washtenaw County.
Younger students designed model communities using recycled materials while studying influential leaders, scientists, inventors and athletes. Older students researched Ypsilanti history while developing skills in cinematography and budget creation.
This year's program also gave students opportunities to connect with local leaders, including Ypsilanti Mayor Nicole Brown and Washtenaw County Commissioner Annie Somerville.
At today’s celebration, students shared their projects and presentations to highlight what they learned this summer and received certificates and awards to honor their achievements.
This year's Summer Learning Experience community partners and sponsors, who provided educational programming, enrichment activities, resources, scholarships and more, included the African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County, the Ann Arbor Community Foundation, Bank of Ann Arbor, the City of Ypsilanti, the EMU STEM-Ed Institute, the Huron River Watershed Council, the Jamil Thomas Sr. Golf Outing, Meridian Insurance, the Office of Community and Economic Development – Washtenaw County, Palm Leaf Club – Ypsilanti, Restoration Outreach Ministries, Rutherford Pool, Square One Education Network, Toyota, Toyota Driving Possibilities, Washtenaw County, Washtenaw Community College (WCC), Washtenaw Intermediate School District, the YMCA of Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti Community Schools, Ypsilanti District Library, the Ypsilanti Housing Commission, and 826 Michigan LLC.