Gorton Center Adds STEM Classes for Kids

Gorton Center, a community center located in Lake Forest, IL is proud to announce the addition of classes and camps aimed at STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. STEM continues to be a critical driver of innovation for children and is a growing career path. Getting kids ready for a STEM workforce starts now. Beginning in March, Gorton is partnering with Noggin Builders and RoboThink to offer coding, video game design, robotics classes on amusement park design and more.

“Through hands-on STEM experiences, children build their creative problem-solving skills and
become more flexible and resilient,” said Amy Torf, Owner & Founder of Noggin Builders. “More than half of the careers our children will hold in their future don’t even exist today, and with creative problem solving, they’ll be prepared to handle the new challenges that come along.”

“Early exposure to STEM education in students helps establish a solid foundation for future academic success, said Danny Park, CEO of Robothink. “STEM participation complements core classes by helping improve all subject areas and bringing to the forefront practical 21st-century skills.”

These STEM classes are offered online and when possible in-person, and are open for enrollment to children seven years of age and older. For more information visit: https://gortoncenter.org/classes

Gorton has installed active ionic oxidation air purifiers to our heating and cooling systems to purify the air and kill airborne pathogens, including COVID-19. Testing on these systems has shown a 99+% inactivation rate against airborne pathogens. We are thrilled to offer this building-wide extra layer of protection to all who use Gorton.

About Gorton - Gorton Community Center is a nonprofit 501c3 organization that operates to enrich the lives of its residents through cultural arts, education and charitable service. The John & Nancy Hughes Theater is a stunning performing arts venue that has become the signature of Gorton Community Center. The entrance leads visitors into a spacious 309-seat theater with state-of-the-art technology systems. The theater offers children, teens and adults the unforgettable experience of performing on stage or attending events close to home. Gorton relies on the generosity of residents and businesses to help fund programs & services offered in the historic building. Gorton is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.