About Us

The Art of S.T.E.M. is a unique track out experience for elementary aged children that is developed and run by educators. It fosters socialization and creative thinking by providing stimulating activities that introduce rudimentary concepts of S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) through visual and performing arts activities.

Each week children perform a short skit (reader's theater style) that is practiced throughout the week. Younger groups perform a dance. The children have a wonderful time practicing, creating their character and making simple costumes. They do all of this without ever being aware that they are practicing their reading fluency and building their confidence. 

Throughout the week, children are offered the opportunity for structured art projects, science experiments, building challenges and movement activities.  We believe it is important to put an emphasis on free play, where a child develops social skills and is allowed to experiment with their creative side. 

“Our program is run by educators, providing a variety of activities every week.”

— Kristin, Founder of The Art of S.T.E.M.

Our Rooms and Rotations

  • Art and Science Room

    Work on creative art projects or challenges that are tied to elementary STEM skills. Create costumes and simple sets for the Friday Skit (Readers Theater) performance/video taping. Experiment with various materials for science exploration.

  • Engineering and Technology Room

    Build forts, pet hospitals, and anything their imagination leads to, using magnet tiles, legos and various building materials. Explore coding dash and Sphero robots, simple animation, and creating stop-motion film with a variety of programs. Use Ipads to draw, learn coding and explore engineering challenges.

  • Drama and Movement Room

    Children work together practicing a simple reader's theater/skit. The script is adjusted for all reading levels. There is also time for unstructured dramatic play and dress up, fun and non-competitive yoga, dancing, obstacle courses, singing, structured games and unstructured free play.

Meet the Team

  • Kristin Schmalzbauer

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR and FOUNDER
    NBCT, MS Education

    Kristin is the founder of The Art of STEM Enrichment Track-Out Camp, which she launched in 2018 after more than 20 years as an educator. With a master’s degree and National Board Certification, Kristin brings deep expertise in early childhood education, as well as firsthand experience navigating the Year-Round School calendar. Her program blends art, STEM, drama, and reader’s theater to foster both creativity and confidence, supporting children’s social-emotional growth in a fun, nurturing environment.

  • Lauren Field

    DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
    BS in Human Services and QMHP

    Lauren brings a strong background in mental health and child development to her role at The Art of STEM. She began her career as a case manager in therapeutic foster care before transitioning to early childhood education, where she supervised the toddler room at the Taylor YMCA and later taught preschool. For the past seven years, she’s been an integral part of The Art of STEM, watching the program grow and thrive. A proud mom of two, Lauren enjoys reading, staying active, and spending time with her family—especially at the beach.

  • Jasmeen Bagga

    DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM
    M.Ed in Art Education

    Jasmeen grew up in New Jersey and earned her degree in Graphic Design from Drexel University before realizing her true passion—teaching. She went on to complete her master’s in Art Education from Temple University and has taught at both the high school and preschool levels. After a few cross-country moves and becoming a mom of two, Jasmeen settled in Cary and joined The Art of STEM during a summer break. From the very first week, she knew she had found her place. With a love for art, education, and inclusive spaces, Jasmeen is excited to inspire curiosity and creativity in every child she meets.

  • Suzanne Greco

    INSTRUCTOR

    Suzanne, known to the kids as “Ms. Suze,” is originally from Long Island, NY, and now lives in North Carolina to help raise her grandchild. With three years at The Art of STEM under her belt, she’s known for her silly, energetic personality and ability to make everyone smile. A proud mom of three (including a set of twins), Suzanne was deeply involved in her children’s schools and church community. After 15 years as a stay-at-home mom, she’s thrilled to be working with children again and feels lucky to be part of the AOS family.

  • Caelen Mulleady

    INSTRUCTOR

    Caelen grew up in Apex and recently returned to the area after earning a degree in Theatre Arts Education with a minor in Psychology from Appalachian State University. She’s passionate about encouraging creativity in young minds and loves helping kids express themselves through art and play. In her free time, Caelen enjoys painting, hiking with her dog, and cheering on her favorite hockey team—Go Canes!

  • Jenn Eldred

    INSTRUCTOR

    Jenn has been part of The Art of STEM team for two years and brings a lifelong love of creativity to the classroom. Before joining the camp, she spent 20 years in automotive retail, finishing her career as a general manager before shifting her focus to raising her children. Jenn homeschooled her kids, volunteered as a room mom for five years, and was drawn to The Art of STEM after seeing a job post that reignited her passion for working with children. Her favorite part of the job? Watching kids light up as they get creative, get messy, and most importantly—have fun!

  • Janis Harr

    INSTRUCTOR

    Janis joined The Art of STEM in October 2024 after more than 30 years of teaching elementary school in Georgia, Colorado, and North Carolina. She spent 19 of those years as a third-grade teacher in Wake County before retiring in 2023. When she’s not inspiring young learners, Janis loves traveling to visit her daughter in Honolulu and her son in San Diego. Reading and exploring new places are two of her favorite pastimes.

  • Padma Tummala

    INSTRUCTOR

    Padma is a retired IT professional with a rich academic background in biology, chemistry, English literature, and computer applications. A lifelong learner and creative soul, she finds joy in music, dance, painting, and gardening. Padma is passionate about connecting with children and fostering curiosity through mindfulness and creativity. Whether she’s hiking, practicing yoga, or helping at camp, she brings warmth, enthusiasm, and a heartfelt presence to every interaction.

  • Suzanne D'Amico

    INSTRUCTOR

    Originally from Massachusetts, Suzanne brings a remarkable 29 years of teaching experience to The Art of STEM Track Out Camp. She’s worked with students from first through fifth grade and is known for her consistency, professionalism, and passion for helping kids grow through hands-on learning and clear expectations. A lifelong learner herself, Suzanne enjoys reading in her downtime, cheering on her favorite Boston sports teams, and spending time with family in Massachusetts and New York.