Fifth graders in the Hannibal Central School District recently took part in a hands-on STEM experience as part of The Hovercraft Project, a dynamic program that combines science, technology, engineering and math with lessons in teamwork, leadership, communication and perseverance.

Throughout the daylong event, students collaborated in small groups to design, build, and test fully functioning hovercrafts capable of carrying their classmates. Guided by The Hovercraft Project facilitators and their teachers, students used problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to bring their creations to life, while also learning the value of patience and cooperation.

“This engaging lesson gives our students a chance to see STEM principles in action while also developing essential life skills,” said DMK Principal Khrystie Allen. “They quickly realized that success required not just understanding the science, but listening to one another and working together.”

By the end of the day, students were riding their hovercrafts the length of the gym, celebrating both their technical achievements and the teamwork that made it possible. Photo Caption DMK fifth graders test out the hovercrafts they created during an engaging STEM lesson.