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Houston Academy students joined more than 50 watch parties nationwide on April 16, exploring how science and technology can help address environmental challenges through the LINKS-STEMREADY National Signature Program STEM Exposed Summit Webinar and Watch Party.
The event brought together between 40 to 50 students in an interactive learning experience centered on environmental STEM topics in recognition of Earth Day. Hosted in partnership with Texas Spring Cypress Chapter of The LINKS Incorporated, a women’s service organization committed to community service, the watch party was part of a nationwide effort, with LINKS chapters across the county hosting similar experiences for middle school students.
“We love working and encouraging children,” said Toni Jackson, president of the Texas Spring Cypress Chapter. “During the summit, we’re here to have fun, engage students, and help them explore career opportunities.
As students participated in the live webinar, they explored how innovation and technology are being used to address global environmental challenges through STEM, and STEAM, which includes the arts to support creativity and problem solving. Students also learned how individual actions, combined with technology and innovation, can contribute to protecting the planet.
Daniel Asoro participates in a binocular exploration activity during the watch party.
Students also participated in hands-on activities, including a binoculars exploration activity and an Earth Day “Leaf Your Mark” project, encouraging them to reflect on their role in protecting the environment. Interactive discussions further challenged students to think critically about sustainability while connecting classroom learning to real-world issues and future STEM career pathways.
Sixth grader Daniel Asoro, who enjoys designing 3D structures and aspires to become a mechanical engineer, said the experience deepened his interest in science and engineering.
“I learned a lot more about science than I used to know,” he said. It was great learning from others.”
Jenesis Brown participates in a STEM discussion during the watch party.
Students remained engaged through the event, asking questions, sharing ideas, and making connections between what they learned and future opportunities in STEM. Sixth grader Jenesis Brown said the experience reinforced her interest in technology.
“I like technology, especially computer science, because of the way my teacher taught it,” Brown said. “I like being able to incorporate science, which I love, and technology.”
Superintendent Dr. LaTonya Goffney, also a member of The LINKS Incorporated, encouraged students to stay curious and continue exploring STEM opportunities.
“Experiences like the STEMREADY STEM Exposed Summit highlight the importance of creating opportunities like this for Aldine ISD students,” Goffney said. “Students are learning and collaborating with peers, leaders, and innovators from across the nation, all with a focus on STEM.”
Educators at Houston Academy emphasized the value of providing meaningful learning experiences beyond the classroom.
“It’s important for students to experience things they may not encounter every day, “ said Diamond Rivers, a computer science technology teacher at Houston Academy. “It opens their eyes to new possibilities, especially in STEM.
Students left the event with new knowledge and a deeper understanding of how STEM can be used to address global challenges. Through experiences like the STEM Exposed Summit watch party, Aldine ISD continues to provide students with opportunities that support college, career and life readiness.
Click here to see more photos from the event.
