The 2024 Central Illinois STEM Fair is set to dazzle attendees with new exhibits and robust backing from area education leaders. Scheduled for Wednesday, April 10th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8 p.m., the fair will take place at Rochester High School's Athletic Complex.
Taylorville High School is stepping up its exhibit game, adding two innovative showcases to its lineup. These include a laser engraving machine exhibit and a display featuring the technology tools utilized by the school's photography club, alongside the popular Tommy TV exhibit.
Pana Elementary will unveil a smart cutting machine known as Cricut, while the Illinois State Board of Education's Learning Technology Center will feature the micro bit, a tiny affordable computer tailored for educational purposes.
Glenwood Middle School will introduce a new exhibit on Project Lead the Way Gateway, offering insight into an engineering curriculum designed for students in grades six through eight.
Springfield Iles School will present two fresh exhibits. The First Lego League robotics team and a collection of student projects competing in the Illinois Junior Academy of Science (IJAS) Science Fair. Additionally, there's an open invitation for students from other schools to showcase their IJAS projects.
Superintendent Kent Froebe of Lincoln Elementary School District 27 emphasizes the fair's role in promoting STEM innovations and fostering student engagement, citing increased interest among participants.
Interim Superintendent Deborah Philpot of Taylorville School District, is proud of the district's commitment to STEM education and its dedication to providing enriching opportunities for students.
Local colleges like Lincoln Land Community College and the University of Illinois at Springfield are expanding their exhibits, recognizing the importance of STEM fields in shaping the future. Brent Todd, Dean of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at Lincoln Land Community College, stresses the institution's responsibility to engage students in STEM disciplines.
Dan Cox, Superintendent for Rochester CUSD3, the host district for the fair, sees the event not only as a showcase for projects but also as a celebration of curiosity, creativity, and the limitless potential of students. He aims to inspire the next generation of innovators and change-makers through the wonders of STEM.
Families, students, and educators from all area schools are encouraged to attend. Free tickets can be reserved via the fair's website. Schools interested in exhibiting can obtain information by emailing rochesterstemfair@qmail.com.
