On Wednesday, April 13, 2022, Federal Way Public Schools (FWPS) hosted the fifth annual STEM Exploration Night for PreK-12th grade scholars and their families to learn about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) pathways which lead to high-demand careers in the region. The virtual event garnered over 500 early registrations, a record for the virtual event.

Through the theme STEM to the Rescue!, scholars learned how they can use STEM to solve problems and save the world. First, scholars explored virtual booths which featured an array of information spanning from higher education and career opportunities to virtual field trips, Sphero club, and a First LEGO League robotics contest. Then, all particpants came together for the welcome address by FWPS Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer before hearing from keynote speaker Adam Powers of Key Tech Labs.

In addition to the powerful keynote, scholars, families, and community members attended panel discussions which included FWPS Womxn in STEM, STEM for All Abilities, STEM en Español, and other informative topics. Minecraft challenges and coding workshops were also available to scholars interested in hand-on activities, and the annual STEM Film Festival featuring scholar-produced films allowed viewers to choose the fan-favorite.

FWPS scholar Yazmin said her favorite part of the night was “Learning about different internships, colleges, and the diverse career options.”

FWPS scholar Alessia shared, “This was my first STEM Exploration Night, and I’m so glad I came!”

Events like STEM Exploration Night are critical components to compliment classroom learning and provide all FWPS scholars opportunities to explore, prepare, and launch into STEM pathways which can lead to high-demand, lucrative careers. FWPS is committed to helping each scholar successfully navigate the critical transitions in their schooling in order to graduate from high school ready for college, career, and postsecondary experiences (Goal 5). Achieving this means that every student must receive equitable opportunity for success, and FWPS believes STEM exploration and integration is key to helping scholars reach their academic and career goals.

STEM Exploration Night virtual booths and online interactive activities, will continue to be available through April 30, 2022. Visit https://www.fwps.org/Page/8421 to explore.