Sussex County group hosts inaugural K-5 STEM Fair

The Sussex County STEM Alliance hosted its inaugural K-5 STEM Fair Nov. 5 at Lewes Public Library as a unique opportunity for students in kindergarten through fifth grade to explore various aspects of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The event encouraged students to experience hands-on STEM learning in a fun way while developing their critical thinking and scientific process skills. It was made possible through a generous community grant from the Carl M. Freeman Foundation and donations from ThinkSecureNet and private individuals.

Approximately 40 students in grades K-5 attending a public, private, home or alternative schools in Sussex County registered for the fair. With topics ranging from the origins of the Moon’s craters and the speeds of different objects in free fall, to experiments testing the thermodynamics of a balloon or the effectiveness of different liquids in dissolving Skittles, students’ projects encompassed all areas of science, technology, engineering and math.

“I’m trying to figure out which soda or sugary drink is the worst for your teeth, and I used eggs because eggs and teeth are both made out of the same thing, which is calcium,” said Aiden Wilkinson. “Calcium on a tooth protects the inside, like the pulp. And on an egg, it protects, of course, the yolk.” Melanie Wilkinson, Aiden’s mother, described how the STEM Fair was the ideal opportunity for Aiden to present his experiments alongside other like-minded students of STEM.

Among those in attendance was Delaware Secretary of Education Dr. Mark Holodick. Along with the STEM Fair judges at the event, Holodick visited each student’s display and listened as they explained what they were trying to figure out in their experiments. At the closing ceremony, Holodick expressed support from the Delaware Department of Education, encouraging and praising both parents and students in their collective roles in maintaining the state’s strong foundation for STEM, which begins at the K-5 level. He also presented medals to two volunteer students from Milford High School who played active roles in supporting the day’s success. All participants were recognized for their efforts, and exceptional entries were awarded exciting prizes.

Awards were given to participants competing in three different grade levels:

Kindergarten and first-grade winners were Conner Kremkau in first place, Madison Hall-Conroe in second and Emma Blair third in the physical science category; with Abby and Lilo Cashdollar in first place, and Lilly McClure taking second place in the earth and space category. Alina Morse took first place in the engineering and math category, and Elijah Whaley earned first place in the life science category.

Second- and third-grade winners included Wesley Kall and Rayne Davis scoring first place in the physical science category.

Fourth- and fifth-grade winners included Leandro Cruz in first place, Dylan McClure in second place, Anna Kall in third place and Spencer Phillips earning honorable mention in the physical science category; and Aidan Wilkinson in first place and Dylan McClure taking second place in the life science category.

“We’re pleased that so many children and families were able to participate in our first STEM fair, and we’re looking forward to growing the event for next year. Stay tuned,” said Jeff Berger, Sussex County STEM Alliance board of directors chair.

Established in 2017, the Sussex County STEM Alliance’s primary mission is to position Sussex County among the national leaders in building STEM awareness, advocacy and advancement. Events such as Engineering Your Tomorrow, which has impacted more than 110 children and their parents since 2018, aim to help raise awareness and encourage women of all ages to pursue and foster STEM careers within their communities. 

The Sussex County STEM Alliance Inc. is a private, nonprofit corporation governed by a volunteer board of directors composed of business and community leaders. Its board meets monthly and hosts regular member meetings to connect with local educators, parents, business leaders and community members to identify key ways to enhance and enrich STEM throughout Sussex County. To learn more or to become a member of the Sussex STEM Alliance, go to sussexcountystem.org.