Innovation, creativity, and collaboration were on full display this past Saturday, April 18, as elementary STEM teams from across the district gathered at Southeast High School for the annual Spring STEM Competition.
Students showcased months of hard work through impressive, year-long projects, including Children’s Storybook Design, Table Game Design, and Video Game Design. In total, 45 projects from 11 schools were featured, giving attendees the chance to read original stories, play student-designed games, and even test out interactive video games. This marked the first year elementary STEM clubs have taken on year-long projects—and the results were nothing short of inspiring.
The excitement didn’t stop there. This year also introduced a brand-new engineering challenge: wind-powered boat building and racing! Students used creativity and strategy to design boats using materials they “purchased” with Boat Bucks, specifically 3D printed for the event. With fans powering the race lanes, 85 teams from 26 schools competed in thrilling races filled with cheering crowds and innovative designs.
After an exciting series of heats, eight teams advanced to the finals. Palm View K-8 School’s team, the Dominators, captured first place, with Manatee Elementary School’s team, the Chicken Nuggets, earning a close second.
While students competed, families joined in the fun through a Suncoast Remake Learning Days experience, held in partnership with the Manatee County Government Water Conservation Department. Hands-on activities focused on the water cycle and conservation, including custom t-shirt design, puzzles, and interactive learning stations that encouraged families to explore together.
Events like this wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of volunteers, educators, families, and community partners. Their support helped create a day full of learning, teamwork, and unforgettable experiences for our students.