Young Mariners in the Making: After-school Program Brings Nautical STEAM to Chicagoland Kids
March 25, 2025
by Megan McNichols Mahon
In a bustling classroom on Chicago’s Near West Side, a group of middle school students huddle around their handcrafted anemometers, eyes wide with excitement as they record measurements and compare results––learning firsthand about the wind patterns that sailors navigate on Lake Michigan. This scene represents just one facet of the Chicago Yacht Club Foundation’s afterschool STEAM program, which has introduced hundreds of Chicagoland children to the wonders of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics through the lens of boating and the Great Lakes.
From building telescopes to spot distant shorelines to exploring coral reef ecosystems and examining the intricate anatomy of clams, the kids are developing connections to the vast natural resources that define Chicago’s eastern edge as well as to the CYC Foundation itself.
“Our hope is that these classroom experiences spark an interest in boating and Lake Michigan that will inspire the kids to participate in the Foundation’s range of summer sailing camps and on-the-water experiences,” said Caroline O’Malley, CYC Foundation Community Sailing Manager. “It’s a way for us to stay connected to Chicagoland kids throughout the year.”
The Foundation’s STEAM initiative has seen exponential growth in the 2024-25 school year, fueled by new partnerships across the city and the addition of more Foundation staff. Partnerships range from Galileo Scholastic Academy on Chicago’s Near West Side to Union League Boys and Girls Clubs throughout the city. The hour-long classes are tailored to the ages of the students, who range from kindergarten to high school. “I visit each site differently,” O’Malley said. “I’ll visit a Union League site three times over a month and then move to another Union League site the following month. At Galileo Academy, I visit once a month.” The enthusiasm among participants has created its own momentum with O’Malley noting, “The kids are asking me to come more often. I’m thrilled that they’re excited about the classes.”
Galileo librarian Anna Crosetto echoed that enthusiasm. “My students look forward to the afterschool program each month where we explore new concepts that deepen their connection to the water––and have fun doing it. This program is very special to us at Galileo. It provides opportunities that many of our students wouldn’t have access to otherwise,” Crosetto said. “I’m so grateful for the generosity of the Foundation and the lasting impact it will have on our students.”
Her students confirm they’re having fun while learning. “One of my favorite activities was the Ninja Turtle one where we learned about buoyancy and life jackets. It was so fun trying to figure out what materials to use,” said sixth-grader Elijah. “Our activities have inspired me to want to learn more about marine technology, biology, and sailing,” he added.
“The afterschool STEAM programs are designed to create familiarity with the nautical world through education so that participants feel more comfortable taking advantage of our boating programs and other opportunities to get on the water,” said Foundation Executive Director Maggie Shea. “We were able to reach so many more kids this year because of the generosity of our donors and the ability to add more staff. We hope to continue the momentum and bring these hands-on experiences to even more children next year."