If you’ve spent much time at WCHS, chances are you’ve witnessed—or, more likely, overheard—the excited chatter of young girls within the school’s halls. They seem to appear out of nowhere once a month, congregating in the science hallway and snacking on granola bars or bags of chips as they converse amongst themselves. They linger as they await the final bell, which is their cue to flood the extra lab in Room 224.
Who are these mystery girls, and why are they at the high school?
These rowdy intruders are here for GEMS (Girls in Engineering, Math, and Science)—a club comprised of fifth grade girls from all four public elementary schools in Woodford County who have an aspiration to learn STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) subjects. Established in 2017 by then-junior Jade Goh, GEMS aims to inspire via interaction with high school mentors who guide the younger students through their learning in the form of
experimental activities. “I have always loved the fields of science and engineering, and working with GEMS is a great way to share my love […] with younger girls who are just starting an interest,” stated senior Addy Warthman, an enthusiastic mentor and unofficial club organizer. “Science needs more girls, and this club enables them to develop a deeper interest in discovery, research, and experimentation.” Warthman, alongside approximately fifteen other high school mentors, is engrossed in creating entertaining and educational projects for the girls’ visits. The goal: keep the young attendees coming back for more scientific fun every month as activities gradually become more exciting. “We will offer a total of 7 events for the 2025-2026 school year,” commented science teacher and club orchestrator Mrs. Stephanie Stoelb. “Activities include things like making light-up circuit holiday cards, 3D printing tree ornaments, learning and creating unique hovercrafts, and robotics.”
Stoelb, beloved throughout WCHS for her welcoming attitude and adoration for biology, has been a conduit for GEMS’ recent success among both teen and child student bodies. Over the years, she has amassed a loyal group of mentors and a constant flow of young learners, allowing for the club’s continuation amidst her own devotion. “Working with students and Science Outreach are both near and dear to my heart. I love the idea of bridging the two and helping to inspire young girls that have an interest,” she reflected, citing the club’s novelty in reference to the uniqueness of the student-mentor model. “I get to witness the power of our amazing high schoolers and the excitement of our elementary students as they create, build, think, and challenge themselves. It’s a win-win opportunity, and a wonderful illustration of our Portrait of a Learner.”
It’s not only the organizers who are enthusiastic about the program: in years past, GEMS girls’ fervor for club activities has shown in the excitement that spills from the school bus doors upon their arrival. Attendance tends to stagnate
around thirty combined members from all of the participating elementary schools, with very few dropping out as the year progresses. The girls’ passion is evident: “It was a fun club to be a part of. I still remember many of the experiments we did, and I made some great memories,” Warthman voiced, citing her own experience as a GEMS girl in fifth grade.
This year’s first GEMS meeting will be taking place on October 22nd, and the program is looking for as many mentors as possible. “Anyone is welcome,” stated Stoelb. “Ideally, you would have an interest or some curiosity toward STEM but it is definitely not required (maybe we can help you find the joy!).” Additionally, service hours for NHS and Beta clubs or any other organizations are offered for mentor participation. So, if you are interested or simply have spare time, come join the fun—it’s an irreplaceable opportunity to explore, create, and assist elementary girls as they flourish in their passions and pursue their scientific dreams.
