Engineering the Future: Building Stuff (and Dreams)

My Students

I have a student who loves robotics. He qualifies for a free hot breakfast each morning, and pops in on his way to the cafeteria asking, "Do you have any new robot books I haven't read yet?" He wants to build, create, and explore the world around him - but he hasn't been given the opportunity. Yet.

My students are dreamers, hard workers, and determined learners - but many can't envision a future in engineering or technology.

With more than half of our student body living below the poverty level or having recently been settled in the area with the help of the International Rescue Committee, they aren't given the opportunity to even consider a future in a STEM field. My goal is to expose my students to a world that some don't even know exists - a world in which they build and shape the future. Those that are aware of this world may not think that they have a chance to get there. This project will prove them wrong. I want to inspire them to work towards a career in the STEM field, no matter how many obstacles they have to overcome to get there.

My Project

My students need K'NEX, Magna Tiles, Clics & Snap Circuit kits to introduce them to engineering in a fun, engaging way that puts whole new future within their reach. These tools will give my diverse group of students the chance to discover a future they may never have dreamed was available to them. Through a partnership with the University of Virginia, third and fourth grade students will meet after school with engineering undergraduates to solve problems using the principals of engineering. From structured play time to custom challenges, my students will be practicing critical thinking, teamwork, growth mindset, whole-brain learning, and the scientific method. With hands-on learning through play, my students will develop the tools that they need to put a career in engineering within their reach. With the principals of engineering they will solve small, fun challenges now so that one day they may solve the challenges of the future.

You have the chance to help a student discover their own brilliance.

Every child loves to build and create. Some children are lucky enough to have these skill nurtured and developed with provided toys and tools. Help the students who aren't as fortunate. Give them the toys and tools they need to put a career in engineering within their reach. Help them learn how to build stuff; help them learn how to build their future.