CULLMAN, Ala. – Students from East and West Elementary Schools spent Thursday, May 1, making marshmallow catapults, learning computer code and more as part of the annual STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Day.
STEM Day is a key part of Cullman City Schools’ curriculum because it celebrates four fields that are key to innovation, problem-solving and the future of society. It’s a day meant to get students excited about how STEM shapes the world around them, and to show how skills like critical thinking, creativity and collaboration are essential not just for careers, but for solving real-world challenges.
“At this year’s STEM Day, students learn a mix of skills and concepts designed to be fun, challenging and useful,” Jennifer Tidwell, STEM teacher at East and West Elementary Schools, explained. “As a STEM teacher, I believe programs like our annual STEM Day are essential for inspiring the next generation of thinkers, builders and problem-solvers. STEM education doesn’t just teach science and math — it teaches creativity, innovation and critical thinking.”
Some activities students had the opportunity to experience include a sand-to-structure 3D-printing lab, an egg drop challenge, a catapult to launch marshmallows, technology actives including robotics and coding, building a life-sized marble run, plus a human senses lab provided by Wallace State STEM Ecosystem and a team member who helped conduct a NASA experiment in microgravity.
“My hope is to see this program grow even stronger, reaching more students and families each year,” Tidwell added. “By expanding partnerships with local businesses and stakeholders offering more hands-on projects, and encouraging students from all backgrounds to participate, we can build a community where curiosity and discovery are celebrated. Investing in STEM today means investing in a future where our students are prepared to lead, to create and to make a difference.”
