STEMfest 2017

Last year (2016) was the first annual STEMfest for Stuart Mesa elementary students. The event was an opportunity for Middle School students to share their learning from the STEM Lab with parents, classmates, and the community.  It was the first time that I had ever organized a student showcase, and although it was highly successful, I have some ideas for improving this year's event.
Today in STEM Lab, students began to think about and research their projects for this year's STEMfest. There was a lot of excitement and brainstorming happening, and I'm really excited to see the projects that the kids are planning. I gave students a link to sciencebuddies.org to help them brainstorm and check out  possible project ideas.
The students do the bulk of the work for the STEMfest. However, as the organizer of the event, I have my fair-share of work too! Some changes that I will be making to the event this year include:

• More time for students to research and refine their projects.
• Additional outlines and guidance for student STEM notebooks.
• More practice time for presentations before the event.
• Smaller groups (either partners or single, NO larger groups)
• Hands on activities for audience participation
• More outreach to families and the community

I look forward to seeing you all at our 2nd Annual STEMfest at Stuart Mesa this year!
Friday, May 19th from 5:30 - 7:30 pm

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