Madison STEM Camp Faces Final Year After Funding Cut

A Unique Science Camp for Neurodivergent Children Faces Uncertain Future

In the heart of Madison, Wisconsin, a special science camp has been offering neurodivergent children a unique opportunity to explore the world of science in a welcoming and inclusive environment. However, this program, which has become a vital resource for families across the Midwest, now faces an uncertain future due to the sudden loss of critical funding.

At Henry Vilas Zoo on a recent Saturday, campers were engaged in hands-on activities such as interacting with animals, building solar ovens, and experimenting with scientific tools. This event is part of a series of STEM camps that have been tailored specifically for neurodivergent youth, creating a space where these children can thrive without the typical challenges they might face in traditional settings.

Dr. Michael Notaro, director of the Center for Climatic Research at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, started the program several years ago. His motivation came from his own experiences with his son, Hayden, who is autistic, and his wife, who is also autistic. Notaro wanted to create an environment that supports and celebrates neurodiversity.

“I think that’s inspired by my son Hayden,” Notaro said. “He’s autistic and a wonderful boy. My wife is also autistic. And based on my desire to support and foster neurodiversity, we created three STEM camps.”

These camps have been held in Madison, Beloit, and Wisconsin Dells, providing valuable educational opportunities for children who may not find suitable programs elsewhere. For years, the National Science Foundation provided partial support for these initiatives. However, that funding was recently terminated, citing concerns over the program's focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) by supporting neurodiverse youth.

“This year, our NSF grant got terminated because of the aspect that they considered it a DEI aspect by supporting neurodiverse youth,” Notaro explained. Despite this setback, families continue to travel from across Wisconsin and northern Illinois to participate in the camps, highlighting the program's importance.

Private donations are currently helping to keep the camps running through the summer, but the long-term sustainability remains unclear. The collaboration between Notaro’s team and the Henry Vilas Zoo has been crucial in creating a sensory-friendly environment that caters to each child’s specific needs. The zoo, which is free and accredited, provides a foundation for these specialized programs, though additional support is always needed.

Courtney Cordova, the zoo’s interpretation coordinator, emphasized the importance of accessibility in the zoo’s mission. She noted that every time the camp is offered, it fills up quickly, with many families waiting on a list to participate.

“Every single time we offer them, we have a wait list and people are so excited to come,” Cordova said. “We want to meet all of the different needs of our diverse community.”

The experience at the camp is designed differently from traditional camps, making it particularly beneficial for children who may not thrive in conventional environments. Cordova highlighted that the program is tailored to ensure that every camper feels comfortable and supported.

Notaro is now actively seeking new grants and partnerships to sustain the program. He believes the impact on kids and families is too significant to lose. Families have shared how much the camps mean to them, noting that their children are becoming advocates for themselves, forming friendships, and developing an interest in science while feeling safe and included.

To learn more about the camps or to find ways to support them, interested individuals can visit the Center for Climatic Research at UW–Madison. The program continues to be a beacon of hope and opportunity for neurodivergent children and their families, and its future remains a priority for those who recognize its value.