In late May, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology proudly welcomed the region’s youngest graduates to campus for a celebration filled with joy, energy, and plenty of high fives from Champ. 

Four kindergarten classes from School District of Lancaster elementary schools donned miniature caps and gowns and walked across the stage in a series of graduation ceremonies held on campus. These students are part of the College’s Adopt-a-Kindergarten initiative, a STEM-focused partnership that connects Thaddeus Stevens College with Lancaster City kindergarten classrooms throughout the school year. 

Through this program, students, faculty, and staff from the College visit designated classrooms to provide hands-on, age-appropriate activities that introduce science, technology, engineering, and math in fun and engaging ways. From building structures to exploring the basics of electricity and simple machines, these experiences help spark curiosity early—and lay the groundwork for future learning. 

As the year progresses, these kindergarteners not only enjoy in-classroom interactions, but also visit the College’s campus to explore real lab spaces and meet students learning in fields such as carpentry, masonry, electronics, and welding. These visits bring STEM to life and introduce the idea that a place like Stevens could one day be part of their journey, too. 

The end-of-year graduation events are a joyful culmination of this ongoing partnership. Families joined teachers and administrators to cheer on their young scholars, celebrating a successful start to their education journey. It’s not just a milestone—it’s a meaningful moment that connects families and students to the idea that higher education is both accessible and achievable. 

At Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, we are proud to invest in future learners and future leaders. By welcoming these students early, engaging them in STEM-rich experiences, and celebrating their growth, we continue our mission as architects of opportunity—right from the very start.