Add Genomics to Your Lights On Afterschool Celebration!

Looking for a new, hands-on way to celebrate Lights On Afterschool this year? Try adding a Genomics Learning Journey activity to your event!

The Maryland Genome Project, led by the MOST Network in partnership with STEM Next, brings free, ready-to-use DNA science lessons to afterschool and summer programs across Maryland. These activities help young people explore how science connects to their lives — sparking curiosity, building STEM skills, and opening doors to future careers.

Why Try It?

Each activity is designed for easy implementation with low-cost, everyday materials, and activity leaders don’t need any special science training or background knowledge. You can run a single activity as part of a community celebration or offer a series over several weeks as a club.

We recently offered Genomics Learning Journeys at the Maryland State Fair, and youth participants were thrilled! The hands-on DNA models and short, engaging videos with diverse STEM professionals drew in kids and families alike.

Get Involved

If you’re planning a Lights On Afterschool event — or simply looking for new ways to engage youth this fall — explore the Genomics Learning Journeys collection and register for our upcoming webinar to get ideas and inspiration.

🧬 Learn more and sign up: stemnext.org/genomics-learning-journeys
📧 Questions? Contact Crystal Snyder at csnyder@mostnetwork.org or Ellie Mitchell at emitchell@mostnetwork.org

Let’s make Maryland shine a little brighter this Lights On Afterschool season with the spark of discovery! ✨