Today we’d like to introduce you to Billie Pace-graczyk-melson
Hi Billie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in a house with a mother who was a teacher and a father who was a carpenter. My days outside of school were spent creating, innovating and experimenting. This time in my childhood instilled a love of this type of work. As a young adult I knew I wanted to do something in a scientific field, but after a summer internship at Michigan State in Pharmacology and Toxicology, I knew I needed more than microscope and lab work. After graduating from Drake University with a degree in Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, I moved to China to teach English. Here I found a love of working and building relationships with students. Upon my return to the States, I turned back to my roots and began a career in secondary science education. I loved every minute working with my students. The opportunity to teach science and math in authentic ways were some of my most prized moments, including distinguishing accolades of Robbinsdale Teacher of the Year and two-time Minnesota Teacher of the Year Nominee.
As always, life happened and I found myself with three young kids. Full-time childcare for three on a teacher’s salary just didn’t work. My husband and I made the tough choice for me to pause my career to stay home and care for our young family. Like any life change, there were personal growing pains. I found myself looking for creative outlets. Soon science for my children and our family friends was a frequent occurrence. Word quickly spread with tales and methods to excite children with creative math and science opportunities. Shortly after, a friend of a friend asked for a science themed birthday party for their child. I laughed but my passion to ignite a love of learning for a child kept me from saying no. This birthday party spurred the creation of The STEM Lab of Minnesota. Today The STEM Lab of Minnesota hosts birthday parties, in-house field trips, partners with community education, supports Girls Scouts, preschool learning, primary, secondary and homeschool education, as well as summer camps.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like any growing business, we are constantly solving pain points. On a personal level, beyond finding a work life balance, childcare is still an issue with three young children at home. On a business level, we recognize we serve a specific client, one who seeks an immersive and hands-on education opportunity or one who is looking for meaningful, unique and exciting birthday experiences for their child.
We’ve been impressed with The STEM Lab of Minnesota , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The STEM Lab of Minnesota is a hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math based children’s enrichment company made up of exceptionally talented teachers. We create lasting memories for children through birthday parties, special events, Girl & Boy Scouts, our preschool/homeschool enrichment programs, in-house field trips and summer camp. Our customers appreciate our topnotch quality, professionalism, commitment to character, passion for STEM education and our finesse for making everyone feel special, engaged and included. Each class or event is a seamless production with hands-on STEM inspired activities.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Voted Minnesota’s Best 2024 in the bronze category of Children’s Birthday Party Venue.
Voted Minnesota’s Best 2024 in the silver category of Outdoor Education.
2021 Minnesota Teacher of the Year Candidate, Billie Pace-Graczyk-Melson
2020 Minnesota Teacher of the Year Candidate, Billie Pace-Graczyk-Melson
2019 Robbinsdale School District Teacher of the Year 2019 WEM Teacher Achievement, Billie Pace-Graczyk-Melson Regional Winner, Synergy and Leadership Exchange, Billie Pace-Graczyk-Melson
Pricing:
- $350+ Magic, Brick Builders (Lego), Cosmetic Chemistry, Owl Pellet Mystery, Crazy Chemistry Themed Parties
- $300+ Super Science, Space, Dinosaur Dig, Sparkle Science, Bubble Themed Parties
- $400+ Potions Party
- Shows average $10-18 per child
- Summer camps average $20-45 per class
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thestemlabmn.com
- Instagram: @thestemlabmn
