The Lealman Exchange, a public-private partnership between Pinellas County and the St. Petersburg Foundation, hosted its fourth annual STEAM Day on Wednesday. Young people gathered to learn about science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
Interactive Stations
Attendees between the ages of five and 17 visited 12 interactive stations, covering topics such as marine science, nutrition, public art, coding, environmental conservation, animal welfare, and physics. Becca McCoy, St. Petersburg Foundation Lealman navigator and STEAM Day coordinator, emphasized the importance of incorporating all five STEAM categories.
Codie Roper of Pinellas County Animal Services taught children about microchips, demonstrating how the technology works and how professionals use it to help owners reunite with their pets. Scouting America representatives oversaw an inflatable axe throwing station, educating children about aerodynamics while encouraging them to play.
Space Trek, a partner with the Tampa Bay STEM Network, supported students, families, and educators. Larry Plank, Space Trek’s chief education and programs officer, oversaw a station where children launched stomp rockets, teaching them about thrust and aiming correctly.
Artist Justin Groom helped attendees spray paint a tent, teaching youth how to safely create graffiti art. The exercise was designed to inspire kids to think outside the box and try new things.
Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.
