Mt. Carmel students scoop pumpkin seeds.

Mt. Carmel Elementary and Fairplay Middle schools were among those that celebrated NationalMt. Carmel students in a reading station with plant-focused books. STEM Day on Nov. 8 with special events and classroom projects.

Mt. Carmel invited parents and families to participate alongside students as part of the school’s emphasis on Family Engagement Month in November, according to Media Specialist Kelsey Howard.

The school organized a variety of interactive activities aimed at enhancing students’ understanding of science and math. Fifth-grade teacher Heather McElroy’s class had the opportunity to rotate through three hands-on stations: one where participants scooped out pumpkin seeds and reflected on their sensory experiences; another station with plant-themed word searches and crossword puzzles; and a station with a cozy Drop Everything And Read (D.E.A.R.) corner with plant-focused books.

The event was designed to foster a sense of community and highlight the school’s commitment to innovative learning experiences. Howard said parents appreciated the chance to engage with their children’s education and explore the creative, hands-on approach to STEM that Mt. Carmel champions.

“Family engagement is vital to our school's success," said Mt. Carmel Principal Dr. Tenia Boone. "This event strengthened the bond between our school and families while providing interactive learning experiences for our young minds."

At Fairplay, seventh graders in science teacher Noelle Belaski’s classes explored the world of coding for STEM Day by creating their own emojis.

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