Kane County Extension highlights robotics success, STEM Fest and secures $3 million workforce grant

Kane County Extension staff presented their annual highlights to the commission, spotlighting youth development and statewide partnerships that support local programming. Sanjeet (S1), the county 4‑H program coordinator, reported the robotics program’s ninth season included 71 youth participants and that five Kane County teams advanced to the state tournament; one team later represented Utah at an international competition in Mexico. Sanjeet also said STEM Fest drew “over 600 students” from King County and Fredonia in grades 2–6.

Elizabeth (S7) and other extension staff described program diversity — from food preservation and family guides to after‑school coding and gardening — and emphasized partnerships that let local staff leverage university expertise. Elizabeth and colleagues also announced a recently awarded Department of Workforce Services grant: “we've been awarded $3,000,000 over the next 3 years” to provide statewide financial wellness education, webinars and professional development. Presenters asked for continued county support for STEM Fest and other outreach events that engage youth and volunteers.

Commissioners thanked the team for their work and noted the programs’ role in community education and economic development; no formal action or county appropriation was taken at the meeting.