Innovative Fifth Grader Launches into STEM by Exploring Rocket Science

 

For an inspiring episode of Boxlight, another young mind explores the fascinating world of rocket science, showcasing the potential of STEM education. Fifth grader Tara is spotlighted and offers some insight into her hands-on experience with rocket science, rocket design, and aerodynamics.

The fifth-grade student is deeply engaged in the process of building a rocket and takes viewers on an enlightening journey. She walks through the process and intricacies of designing functional rocket components, focusing on the significance of shapes. She vividly describes her innovative approach to construction and the tools used along the way, such as 3D printing, testing rocket performance, and highlighting the practical applications of STEM learning in real-world scenarios. With guidance from her mentor, Ms. Hefner, Tara’s project not only demonstrates the joys of learning and discovery but also ignites a passion for science and engineering in young minds.

Article written by Alexandra Simon. 

Recent Episodes

Detroit’s renewal is no longer a distant dream—it’s unfolding in real time. From reimagined neighborhoods to booming small businesses, the city’s momentum is visible on every corner. Major events, like recent large-scale sports and cultural gatherings, have showcased its vibrancy to hundreds of thousands of visitors. But the real engine of this revival may…

In today’s rapidly changing world, effective leadership in education is about more than managing schools—it’s about inspiring a culture of thinking that empowers both teachers and students. As classrooms adapt to new technologies, diverse learning needs, and shifting societal demands, leaders have the responsibility to guide not just the acquisition of knowledge but the…

Small colleges across the United States face mounting pressure from shifting student expectations, rising costs, and an increasingly competitive higher education market. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, undergraduate enrollment rose 3.5 percent in spring 2025 compared to the prior year, reaching 15.3 million students, but still remains 2.4 percent below pre-pandemic…