SD Biotech grant helps fund initial run of Doodle Journal

October 24, 2025

In 2024, Dr. Kevin Smith received a STEM outreach grant from South Dakota EPSCoR/South Dakota Biotech to support his STEM outreach program that encourages positive attitudes toward math.

These outreach grants are awarded to projects that will enhance the quality of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education within South Dakota K-12 schools and non-profits across the state.

"The primary goal of this project was to foster a more positive mindset toward mathematics among elementary students," Smith said. Oftentimes, math is seen as a barrier or gatekeeper to STEM courses and careers.

Smith filmed three videos featuring architects from JLG Architects showcasing real-world applications of mathematics in architecture.

He also created a Doodle Journal to complement his children's book, "Yucky!." Smith published the children's book in 2023 about a young student who learns that math can be fun.

While he had initially hoped to print 100 Doodle Journals, the grant allowed him to print 250 copies, exceeding the original goal.

Smith visited 13 classrooms, reading "Yucky!" to 294 students and distributing the Doodle Journal. He also led the students through drawing activities.

One teacher later shared that many of their students kept their Doodle Journals at their desks and used them whenever they had free time, noting how much they appreciated the examples and how-tos.

"I consider this project a significant success and the foundation for future outreach initiatives," Smith said.

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