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Memorial fund makes West Chicago STEM classes free for kids

Fifty students will have an opportunity to take part in STEM programming at the West Chicago City Museum for free this summer, thanks to a resident's generosity.

Maureen Margolis established a fund with the museum in honor of her parents, William and Evelyne Margolis, that will cover the cost of eight classes designed to educate kids about the importance of steam technology and the westward expansion of the railroad in West Chicago's history.

"She was really excited we were doing something with science and math," said Maggie Capettini, the museum's education coordinator.

Capettini was in the process of planning and publicizing one STEM class in June for six to eight kids when Margolis reached out to her and asked how many people would be allowed to participate. The two talked more about the purpose of the class and its focus on science, technology, engineering and math before Margolis finalized her donation.

Margolis told Capettini her parents were longtime residents of the city who worked hard to provide their children with the best possible educational opportunities. William was an insurance agent and Evelyne was a Republican precinct committeewoman who volunteered at local schools and in town.

The classes are geared for kids 7 to 14 and will run 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. June 9 and 10, July 1 and Aug. 4. The morning session June 10 and the afternoon session Aug. 4 will be "girls only" sessions, following an education trend to get more girls interested in STEM.

During the sessions, the students will build model steam engines and learn more about the railroad.

"It's a fun way to do something in the summer where you're learning history but you're building something," Capettini said. "Kids love building things and seeing them work."

To register, call (630) 231-3376, email museumed@westchicago.org or visit the museum at 132 Main St.

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