Get ready for an exciting new resource for families in Westchester, NY! This January, The STEAM Collective, founded by Kevin Stahl and Nicole Russo, is launching at Locals10538 in Larchmont. With a mission to foster creativity and curiosity, The STEAM Collective offers hands-on interdisciplinary classes for Pre-K through 5th graders, blending science, technology, engineering, arts, and math in engaging ways. More than just a place to learn, The STEAM Collective aims to be a community hub, supporting local businesses and hosting events.
About the Founders
The STEAM Collective was founded by Kevin Stahl, a Larchmont dad from Rockland County, NY, and Nicole Russo, a Larchmont mom from Long Island, NY.
Kevin and his wife Laura moved to Larchmont in 2019 from Park Slope, NY, welcoming their third child shortly after. They have three kids: Olivia (9), a 4th grader at The Windward School; Camden (7), a 1st grader at Chatsworth Elementary; and Teddy (4), who attends Larchmont Temple Nursery School. Nicole and her husband Jeremy moved to Larchmont in 2012 from Chicago via White Plains. They have three children: Anabelle (13) and Owen (11), who attend Hommocks Middle School; and Adelaide (7), a Chatsworth Elementary student.
About The STEAM Collective
Kevin and Nicole met at Hiawatha Martial Arts while their kids learned Tae Kwon Do. Their shared teaching values deepened while teaching STEM and Crafts at Badger Day Camp, inspiring them to launch The STEAM Collective. The Collective offers hands-on interdisciplinary STEAM classes and aims to be a community hub for learning and supporting each other.
Kevin, with a business degree and 15+ years in finance, shifted to teaching and community involvement, leading STEM programs and coaching in Larchmont. Nicole, an educator with a master’s in English Literature, has taught around the world and combines her love of teaching with creativity. Both value experiential learning as a counterbalance to today’s digital world.
Fudraising Events
The STEAM Collective serves as a community hub. Their first event, “Legos for Locals,” collected Legos to create holiday gifts for underserved children. Their second event “Peace by Piece” on January 9th will have a swap for clothing pieces and kid crafts for puzzle pieces. They are excited to have fun and reduce waste while supporting local businesses and community connection.
Upcoming Goals for The STEAM Collective
The goal is to create a network of classes, events, and locations where learners of all ages can collaborate, innovate, and grow, tailored to the unique needs of each community.
Advice to Parents
Encourage creativity with everyday items, turning them into experiments or art projects. Provide unstructured time and space for children to explore and make mistakes, which fosters growth and innovation. Avoid over-reliance on technology; a simple deck of cards can inspire creativity.
Favorite Local Businesses
Kevin recommends Stanz Cafe, 10538 Bicycles, Creative Corner, and Locals10538 for their community focus. Nicole highlights Manor Park Deli, The Golden Shoestring thrift store, Estelle’s Gourmet (best cream puffs in Westchester), and Stefanie’s Closet for their commitment to community partnerships.
We are so thankful for our amazing community and the wonderful people and places that are a part of it. Check out our Blog page for more features that highlight local businesses! Looking for something to do in the Sound Shore area? Visit our Local Guides and Calendar pages to stay in the know!