Where curiosity drives learning: Inside the NCCDC STEM Learning Center

When Bishop Osco E. Gardin Jr. envisioned the New Covenant Community Development Center (NCCDC) STEM Learning Center, he wanted more than an after-school program. He wanted a space where students could explore science, technology, engineering and math—not from a desk, not from a lecture, but with their hands, their imaginations and their voices.

Gardin, who has spent decades serving his community through education and mentorship, has long worked to create opportunities for students. He began with TRIO Upward Bound for high school students, offering tutoring, college visits, mentoring, and scholarship support, then expanded to middle school students to provide hands-on learning and exposure to new skills and technologies to help them feel confident and ready for high school. The STEM Learning Center is the latest step in a long-standing relationship with Union County Public Schools (UCPS).

In late November, the center opened its doors to students in grades K-5 from the district’s Monroe cluster. Each day, students first complete their homework before exploring the center’s technology. Inside, young learners race cars on simulators, experiment with drones, navigate VR experiences, play games on PS5s and complete STEM-related book reports—all while building confidence and creative thinking.

“It wasn’t about the traditional desk and lecture-style classroom,” Gardin said. “We wanted kids to be able to explore, challenge themselves and create something they couldn’t do anywhere else.”

Dr. Jonathan Tyson, UCPS chief of school performance, said the center provides support that helps students grow both academically and socially.

“Bishop Gardin and his team provide students with experiences they otherwise wouldn’t have,” Tyson said. “This STEM Learning Center builds on TRIO Upward Bound and middle school programs, giving younger children exposure to STEM and leadership skills at a high level.”

Inside the center, students are already feeling the impact. The enthusiasm is hard to miss. Gardin said students become so engaged in the activities that they don’t want to stop, eager to continue learning, experimenting and sharing what they’ve discovered.

Skyler Robinson, a fourth grader from Benton Heights Elementary School of the Arts, can’t hide her excitement about the center.

“I love meeting new people and getting the chance to try all the new things… learn new things and see what’s next,” she said. Her favorite activities include the car simulator, “kind of like a racing car… with real pedals and a real steering wheel,” and the VR set, which “was too big for me, but super cool.”

She also enjoys STEM projects, like her current book report on optical illusions.

“When I read the book, I realized how crazy and cool they are,” Skyler said. “They’re kind of funny and tricky because they make you see something that’s not really there.”

For Saul Hernandez-Oropeza, an East Elementary fifth grader, the center combines hands-on learning with academics.

“When I did a test at school, I remembered the things I learned from here. I did way better in reading,” he said. Students practice book reports in two parts: first, presenting to the class, then participating in a roundtable discussion where they share ideas and ask questions in a podcast-style format.

“I get shy in front of cameras, but I’m learning not to be nervous,” Saul said.

The podcast, supported by intern Guy Taylor from Wingate University, helps students communicate what they’ve learned. While the idea came from staff, Taylor’s experience with media helps bring it to life.

“The goal is for students to find their own voice and share what they know,” Taylor said. “They’re learning to express their ideas clearly, ask questions and listen to each other. That confidence carries into the classroom and beyond.”

Dion Byrum, the center’s director, said the environment teaches more than STEM.

“We could really dial in on little things like the math skills each grade needs,” Byrum said. “Beyond that, the kids get to try new technology, explore engineering concepts, debate, collaborate and practice public speaking through podcasts and presentations. They are learning that their words can be powerful.”

Skyler’s curiosity extends beyond the classroom. She dreams of becoming a nail artist and an inventor, designing a self-cleaning utensil that transforms from a spoon to a fork. Saul enjoys writing and presenting, refining skills that will serve him well in school and life.

Students are learning to trust their own abilities.

“No matter what they were doing, they are going to articulate themselves and give 100 percent,” Gardin said.

Dion Byrum, the center’s director and a former educator who also had a brief career in the NFL, says he loves seeing students discover what they are capable of.

“Watching a kid try something new, take risks, and realize, ‘I can do this,’ is what makes this place special,” he said. “It’s not just about STEM skills. It’s about confidence, creativity and learning how your words and ideas can move people.”

The center is still new, but the vision is clear. Gardin, watching students rotate through stations, noted the excitement and growth around him.

“This is just the beginning,” he said. “We want kids to see possibilities they never imagined—and know that their dreams can be bigger than they think.”

Byrum added how that vision comes alive every day.

“Right now, it’s K-5, but the opportunities are endless. Kids can explore, experiment, and connect with mentors and one another. That’s powerful,” he said.

For students like Skyler and Saul, the NCCDC STEM Learning Center is more than an after-school program; it’s a place full of possibilities.

“It’s fun and educational,” Saul said. “You get to learn more stuff, try new things and meet friends from other schools. I would tell any friend to come here because it’s awesome.”