Saturday STEM Programs for Grades K – 8
Carnival
Registration opens Monday, August 18, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.
September 13, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
5th & 6th Grade - Hit the Breaks! The Science to Stop a Free Fall
There is nothing more fun at a Carnival than a Drop Tower. Strapped into your seat, you slowly rise into the air and a split-second later tumble into a freefall. Hurdling towards the ground, it’s a lot more fun if you stop in time. Come one and all to learn how magnetic or pneumatic brakes can keep heavy objects from crashing into the ground. Can you make a magnet float on a tower? Can you stop an object from falling just using air pressure? Learn the secrets behind this classic thrill ride.
7th & 8th Grade - Ride the Motion: Building the Engineering Behind Carousels
In this engaging middle school STEM program, students will dive into the fascinating world of engineering by exploring the design and mechanics behind a traditional carousel. Through hands-on activities and collaborative challenges, students will investigate the mechanical systems that power these iconic carnival rides, including gears, motors, and rotational motion, while applying principles of physics and engineering design. From concept to construction, students will gain a deeper understanding of how carousels work and develop critical problem-solving skills as they design and build their miniature, working models.
*Applying and qualifying for a scholarship does not guarantee an award or registration into the program. To qualify for a scholarship, the student’s family is required to submit proof of financial eligibility: if you qualify for SNAP or Free/Reduced lunch, you qualify, but we need you to submit proof of eligibility. If you do not have a form in your possession or have difficulty getting it from your school or IDHS, you may submit a screenshot showing eligibility. Please contact us at studentenrichment@imsa.edu if you have difficulty with this requirement. Alternatively, a 2021 or 2022 federal tax return showing proof of family income may be submitted.
- Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis, so it is to your benefit to submit all supplemental forms as soon as possible.
- WATCH YOUR EMAIL and CHECK YOUR SPAM FOLDER! Award recipients will be notified via email and must reply to the scholarship offers within the time period indicated in the email.
- NOTE: You may choose to either pay for program registration OR apply for a scholarship and await award notification. Your scholarship application will not be considered if you also complete a paid registration.
No requests for a registration cancellation/refund will be accepted for all in-person Saturday STEM programming.
