Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics for Hands-On Activities Event at A.S. Rhodes Elementary School

Beginning in the late afternoon on Tuesday, March 4, A.S. Rhodes Elementary School bustled with energy and excitement as students engaged in a wide variety of hands-on activities. Working together with the Discovery Museum and sponsored by the Elks Lodge of Front Royal, this “STEAM Night” featured the school at its best as it brought science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics to life for all in attendance. As advertised, “Participants will have the chance to delve into a rich variety of hands-on activities that span the STEAM spectrum. From conducting scientific experiments to exploring the latest in technology, tackling engineering challenges, expressing their artistic talents, and mastering mathematical puzzles, there’s something for everyone.”

At the weather station, a young man attempts to construct a wind sleeve.

Debra Curtis, a teacher at A.S. Rhodes Elementary School, is also a key player on the Family Engagement Team. It is the goal of the team to attract parents and children for fun, after-school activities in the school that hopefully convey to the children an enthusiasm for learning that spills over into every aspect of their lives. Curtis explained that many of the activities featured for “STEAM Night” are reflective of what students are currently learning in the classroom, integrated from grades spanning the elementary spectrum. A perfect example is the weather unit that fifth graders at the school will begin shortly. Curtis indicated the weather station where students had the opportunity to make snow, capture a cloud in a bottle, interact with an anemometer which is an instrument for measuring the speed of the wind or any current of gas, use a thermometer, and play with kaleidoscopes that show the different seasons.

Down to the ground, children connect bumblebees to flowers.

A student performs an experiment that illustrates the propulsion behind a rocket-ship blastoff.

Whether it’s science or art, this program in which the school was assisted by the Discovery Museum is relevant to the SOL assessments that teachers like Curtis are keeping on their radar. It is also a great way to get parents involved in their children’s education. And all of this would not have been possible without the financial assistance of the Elk’s Lodge, which according to Principal Lori Layman covered the lion share of the cost for the event. “We appreciate the community support,” Layman said. “We had a great turnout tonight, so we’re glad that the families are out. The students all seem to be having a lot of fun. It’s nice to just kind of build on that creativity for them.” Asked what she hopes students take away from the event, Layman said: “Learning goes beyond the classroom. There are all types of things that they can do at home just to continue the learning that starts here at school.”

A student takes full advantage of artistic expression at the art station.