Northeast School students use STEM skills to launch pumpkins

Northeast School students recently created pumpkin catapults using the STEM-related skills they have learned throughout the year.

Each class was given popsicle sticks, binder clips, tape, etc., to make a catapult for small Styrofoam pumpkins. Students were then divided into groups and tasked with the goal of creating an effective launching device. Once the creations were complete, the NE students met outside to launch and measure how far each pumpkin flew through the air.

Structural Engineers from the ASCE American Society of Civil Engineers were also on hand both to work with students, and to demonstrate a catapult to launch using a real pumpkin.

Evergreen Park Elementary School District 124 is comprised of five schools: four elementary schools and one middle school. The District also offers early childhood and pre-kindergarten services and programming. District enrollment fluctuates slightly each year, with approximately 1,800 students enrolled annually.