Go for Launch! Elementary Science Olympiad was beta tested this November 23rd in Sutton with 5th and 6th graders. Students participated in four sessions that involved inquiry, design, measurement, and teamwork. The sessions included such titles as “Catapults,” “Straw Challenge,” “Estimania,” and “Write It, Do It.” This Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) experience began at 8:15 a.m. and concluded with an celebration rally at 11:00 a.m. Teachers and coaches for each session took pictures of students at work as well as noted specific individuals who displayed teamwork and integrity. Teamwork certificates were handed out to students to celebrate great character under pressure. A compilation of student pictures was also shared at the celebration. Students cheered and applauded for themselves and others. This experiment in scientific inquiry, challenge, and competition was successful and will be replicated for other interested ESU9 school districts. If interested, please contact Kristen Slechta (kristen.slechta@esu9.us) and be sure to visit the following flyers with videos: https://www.smore.com/pztru (Teachers/Coaches), https://www.smore.com/2zbba (Student Version).
“As far as my perspective, I wanted to give kids a unique academic challenge that would require using real world problem solving and people skills. After exploring a few ideas, I was drawn to a science olympiad because so many students enjoy science but we have a very limited amount of time for it. I was not sure what to expect but kids loved it! The events covered a wide range of academic skills from writing to math to engineering. Students were highly engaged and I really liked how hands on everything was. Students at all different academic levels were pushed in their thinking as well as it gave everyone a chance to shine because of the diversity of skills required. I have already had students and teachers ask about doing it again. “
Travis Lockyer, Sutton Elementary Principal
