Math, science will shine bright at South Callaway Elementary

School hosting STEM night this evening

MOKANE, Mo. - Children's love of science should start young. That's the philosophy behind South Callaway Elementary's STEM Family Fun Night planned for tonight.

The activity night will feature science, technology, engineering and math-themed activities for all ages - parents to preschoolers - and a crowd-pleasing hot dog and chips dinner.

"The fifth-grade students are having an Invention Convention," Principal Corey Pontius said. "They were asked to make their own toys, using two simple machines in each toy."

Simple machines include inclined planes, levers and wheels.

"The toys are very creative," Pontius said. "Most of them you'd have to come see. It's hard to explain what they are."

Understanding how simple machines work is a precursor to learning about physics and engineering.

"We really try to tie a lot of our science and math to actual careers that they could have in the future," Pontius said. "When you bring the interest level into the classroom, you get more out of the class."

Kids whose interest is sparked in elementary school might go on to take more, higher-level science and math classes in middle and high school.

Because it's never too late to learn, parents will have a chance to learn about coding with instructional coach Kathryn Zimmerman down in the labs.

And because it's never too early to start, special education teacher Danielle Smoot and guidance counselor Cindy Jordan will lead STEM-focused activities for preschool children.

"Preschoolers will be exploring science and math concepts by observing the reaction between vinegar and baking soda," Smoot said. "They will take colored vinegar in eye droppers and make designs in the baking soda."

They'll also be able to experiment with magnets and build little towers and cars.

Nearly 300 people have told the school they plan to attend the event. 

Pontius isn't sure they have room for many more, though he thinks those who do get in will have a great time.

"Our teachers and students have been working hard to prepare for this, and I think it's going to be a great night," he said.

If you go

STEM Family Fun Night takes place from 5:30-7 p.m. at the South Callaway Elementary School, 10135 Highway C.