ALEXANDRIA — On Thursday afternoon, children from all over the area had the opportunity to learn about science, technology, engineering, art and math.
An estimated 1,200 people attended the 7th Annual STEAM Expo, held March 21 at Alexandria Regional High School.
“The goal of the STEAM Expo event is to create an enthusiasm for learning through hands-on, interactive activities that demonstrate how fun STEAM can be. It introduces elements of the STEAM curriculum and connects learning with real-world applications.” wrote the co-organizer of the event. Coordinators Lynn Jenk and Jill Johnson said in an email to the Echo Press.
Thanks to our partnership with the community, Alexandria Public Schools was able to make this event free to all who are interested.
There were 21 exhibitors in the Commons, 4 in the gymnasium, performances in the performing arts center and other activities in the learning laboratories of all schools.
Travis Gulbrandson/Alexandria Echo Press
Participating organizations include Alexandria Education Foundation, Alexandria Technical and Community College, Allomere Health, ALP Utilities, Bethany on the Lake, LGC, BioSearch Technologies, Pope/Douglas Solid Waste Management, REA, and Sanford Health .
Among other learning opportunities, Alomere Health's booth displayed actual specimens of human organs such as the heart and brain for visitors to observe.
“We just teach kids about labs and things like that,” said Ryan Luthi of Alomere Health.
Another booth at Alexandria Technical and Community College displayed pediatric and infant CPR mannequins, as well as sutures and staples that attendees could remove.
ATCC Nursing Assistant Program Coordinator and Instructor Lisa Evans said that when they first saw the mannequins, some of the children seemed “a little scary” until they saw them up close.
“The look on my first child's face when the sutures were removed was priceless,” Evans said.
STEAM Expo offers a variety of opportunities for participants, Jenk and Johnson wrote.
“It brings families and the community together, provides engaging learning and entertainment, and is enriching to watch,” they wrote. “Lots of smiles, fun and great energy! We will also be showcasing our beautiful high school facilities, made possible through the generous support of our taxpayers, giving everyone the opportunity to experience a place of learning.”
Travis Gulbrandson covers several areas, including the Greater Sakis School Board and the Greater Sakis City Council, in addition to the Brandon-Evansville School Board. He will also focus on crime and court news.
