This year’s Aviation Day and STEM Night at Burns was an incredible celebration of fun, hands-on learning, and discovery. The event brought students, families, and the community together for a day full of exciting activities, all centered around science, technology, engineering, and math.
Aviation Day: Soaring to New Heights
Aviation Day was a true highlight, with activities designed to spark curiosity about the world of flight. The air was filled with excitement as students and families participated in various hands-on experiences. Paper airplane contests were a favorite—everyone tried their best to design the perfect plane that would soar the farthest. The energy was high as each throw brought cheers, laughs, and a little friendly competition.
Next up were the balloon drops, which had everyone looking up in anticipation. As colorful balloons fell from the sky, there was a sense of joy and wonder that filled the air. Helicopters took center stage, giving attendees a close-up view of how they operate and what makes them tick.
But the excitement didn’t stop there. We had rockets launching into the sky, giving everyone a chance to witness the power of thrust in action. The air cannons were also a big hit, as they tried to knock down as many cups as they could, showing off the basic principles of air pressure and force. The hands-on nature of these activities allowed students to connect with the science of flight in a way that was both fun and engaging.
STEM Night: Endless Fun and Learning
As the sun began to set, STEM Night kicked off with a whole new set of activities that blended learning with excitement. The theme of the night was clear: Science, technology, engineering, and math can be fun!
One of the many fun activities was creating pictures with different shapes. Students got to experiment with geometry by combining shapes to make unique and imaginative designs. It was a fun way to explore the basics of shapes, symmetry, and creativity all at once.
In another station, kids had the chance to experience the cool sensation of being vacuum-sealed in a bag. It was a perfect introduction to the science of air pressure, and students couldn’t help but giggle as they got “sealed” inside their bags, feeling the pressure difference as the air was sucked out.
The homemade hoverboards were another huge hit. Students got to ride on the hoverboards, learning about basic principles of air movement and physics. Watching them slide across the gym floor felt futuristic, and exciting!
Other engaging activities included building parachutes, racing cars, and even making electric fans. These hands-on projects introduced students to concepts like aerodynamics, engineering, and electricity in a way that made learning feel like an adventure.
We also explored hydraulics, where students learned how fluid power works through fun experiments. Watching students create their own hydraulic systems was inspiring, as they worked together to create machines that could lift and move objects with water pressure.
The Perfect Blend of Fun and Education
What made Aviation Day and STEM Night truly special was the perfect balance of fun and learning. Students weren’t just reading about science or watching demonstrations—they were actively participating in experiments, asking questions, and coming up with creative solutions. The event showcased the power of hands-on learning and how it can inspire a love for STEM fields at a young age.
The event wasn’t just about the science—it was about building a community. Families, teachers, and students came together to celebrate the joys of learning. It was a day filled with laughter, excitement, and a sense of shared curiosity.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on this year’s Aviation Day and STEM Night, we’re already looking forward to next year’s event. The enthusiasm, energy, and joy from students and families made it clear that STEM activities like these play a crucial role in shaping young minds and inspiring them to think critically and creatively!
