From a device to collect and store clean drinking water to a habitat prototype to help save penguins from the effects of polar ice caps melting, this year’s NPS STEM Expo showcases student-led solutions to real-life issues. The fourth annual citywide event, themed “Problem Seekers, Solution Makers,” will take place at Brien McMahon High School, 300 Highland Ave on Saturday, March 14.
Doors open to the public at 9am with opening ceremonies starting at 9:30am. Admission is free. The Expo will kick off with the Norwalk JROTC cadets followed by a Norwalk Public Schools student singing the National Anthem. The awards ceremony will take place at 1:30pm. All families and members of the community are welcome.
Throughout the day, attendees can interact with local businesses such as First Robotics to engage with Robots and virtual reality experiences, 3D goggles from The Walk Bridge Project, and flight simulation with Milestone C.
NPS Library Media Specialists will offer a Maker Space for students and parents to engage in hands-on engineering and computer science tasks utilizing Legos, game-based and coding applications.
Other highlights include:
+ Exhibits by Stepping Stones.
+ Breakfast and lunch offerings from local food trucks.
+ Brien McMahon Healthcare Academy students will offer free wellness checks for attendees.
+ Brien McMahon High School’s Marine Science Academy will have a touch tank onsite and water analysis demo.
+ Norwalk High School Astronomy Club.
+ Presentations by Norwalk High School, Rowayton & Roton Robotics Club.
+ Digital Media and Communications Academy students will conduct onsite interviews with attendees.
The Expo will feature student-led live demonstrations, STEM-related games, and activities throughout the day. During the judging period, students will explain their pieces, while other participants and guests are free to explore projects and demonstrations. Judges will include educators, city officials, students, and representatives from local agencies, honored dignitaries and community partners. This includes Pepperidge Farm and founder of Skip the Plastic, Betty Ball. “STEM Championship” awards will be given out in all divisions.
Projects included in this year’s Expo were selected from K-8 student and classroom work presented at individual STEM Expos held throughout the district. Students also participated in a contest to design a logo that best represents this year’s STEM Expo. The winning logo will be included on STEM Expo materials and awards.