Park Lane’s STEM Night drew about 200 students and families for hands-on science and engineering activities.

Fifth-grader Isabelle enjoyed the multicolor box art because “I could be creative and it was interactive and fun” while her sister, first-grader Lenora, liked connecting circuits to make lights turn on.

With their dad, Zach, the girls also built a paper boat that held 19 metal nuts before sinking. 

“I hope they learn to have an interest in STEM, robotics, electronics, whatever area they may like,” he said.

Each activity station was run by a student council member. 

“The student council own their stations and want to give it purpose; I like how they’re being gracious with the other kids,” said kindergarten teacher Katie Walker, who was participating with first-grade daughter Tessa. “I hope students get excited about the elements of STEM and learn problem-solving and critical thinking skills they can apply in class and in other things they’re doing. I want them to try on a project and think through it to adapt it and try again and again.”

Principal Justin Jeffery said the event followed a STEM on Stage assembly, funded by a STEM Action Grant. 

“We’re wanting students to engage and explore STEM so they can pique their curiosity and apply what they learn,” he said. “They may even discover a new passion.” λ