Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology is proud to celebrate the success of its Adopt-a-Kindergarten program, which has long made a significant impact by encouraging young learners to explore careers in the trades. This initiative, launched in partnership with the School District of Lancaster, introduces kindergarteners to hands-on technology and STEM-based activities through play-based learning. Ongoing for more than a dozen years now in various elementary school buildings within the school district, the program not only provides enhanced, hands-on STEM activities to young students, it introduces them to possible future careers. The positive effects of this early exposure are clear, as two of the first kindergarteners involved in the program are now enrolled at Thaddeus Stevens College.
One of the students, Aryana Luciano, is currently in the Graphic Communications & Printing Technology program at the College. Reflecting on her early education, Aryana remembers how kindergarten felt more like play than formal learning, creating a positive association with education. “They always made it feel like it was a game rather than learning,” she said. This approach left a lasting impression, inspiring her journey through education and ultimately leading her to pursue a trade at Thaddeus Stevens College.
Aryana chose the College because of the hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn from passionate instructors. “I always knew I wanted to go into a trade of some sort,” she shared. She was particularly drawn to the design program, which offered a clear pathway to a fulfilling career. Excited about campus life, Aryana participates in events like the annual print crawl in Lancaster, which connects students and professionals in her field.
The second student, Adam, also speaks highly of the foundation built during his time in the kindergarten program. His journey from kindergarten to college exemplifies the program’s goal of nurturing a love for learning and providing pathways to technical careers.
Thaddeus Stevens faculty, students and staff visit kindergarten classes at participating elementary schools in the district as part of the Adopt-a-Kindergarten program. At the end of the year, these classrooms can take a field trip to Thaddeus Stevens College to participate in a kindergarten graduation ceremony on campus.
The Adopt-a-Kindergarten” program continues to make an impact by fostering early interest in technical education, and Aryana and Adam are living proof of its success. With a focus on hands-on learning and exposure to potential career paths, Thaddeus Stevens College is building a pipeline of skilled workers ready to contribute to their communities. As the program continues, the college is excited to welcome more students inspired by their early educational experiences, bridging the gap from kindergarten to college in a meaningful way.
Read more about each of their stories and where the College is involved, featured in Lancaster Online here: