The Belleville Elementary and Intermediate Schools are celebrating STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) the first week of May. This special week highlights STEM activities for students to engage in and aligns with the district's Project Lead the Way (PLTW) initiative. Through PLTW, 2nd-6th grade students have been studying the scientific method and engineering design process. This type of learning builds strong background knowledge for these students and gives them confidence to try new things and work collaboratively.

On Monday, May 1st, Civil/Environmental Engineer and Belleville parent, Cathy Wunderlich, met with students and shared her experience working for the DNR. She explained her role overseeing the state's public drinking water systems and how they meet the state requirements.

On Tuesday, May 2nd, students enjoyed a visit from the author of The Toy and the Twister, Gillian King-Cargile. In her book, she shows students how understanding science can help them solve real-world problems, just like they are learning to do in their PLTW classes.

On Wednesday, May 3rd, students enjoyed reading STEM books in both print and online.

Thursday, May 4th, is the Science Fair! With over 70 students participating and community businesses Hometown Pharmacy and Belleville Clinic attending, it is sure to be a fabulous event. The Science Fair begins at 6:00 p.m., and Physics Experience will also have a performance at 7:00 p.m. Family and community members are invited to attend. A Buy-One-Get-One Free Book Fair will also be occurring at the same time, plus attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a scavenger hunt for prizes.

The week culminates with Pi(e) Day on Friday, May 5th, as a PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports) celebration day. Students earn rewards by demonstrating safe, respectful and responsible behavior. This month two winning classrooms have the opportunity to pie a teacher in the face! A fun and exciting way to end their STEM celebration week.

The School District of Belleville hopes to instill a love for learning in students and a passion for science, technology, engineering and math by celebrating the power of STEM. Students will continue to engage in exciting opportunities as Project Lead the Way is further implemented in their classrooms.