Kaylee Simons
Elmore Autauga News
More than 75 educators gathered at 17 Springs for a STEM energy workshop designed to bring hands-on science instruction into local classrooms, exploring everything from solar oven design concepts to lessons on how electricity moves through a circuit.
The workshop, hosted through a partnership between Alabama’s electric cooperatives and the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project, provided teachers with interactive activities, classroom resources and curriculum materials focused on energy, electricity, conservation and emerging technologies.
Rather than simply learning about the lessons themselves, educators participated in the same activities students would experience in the classroom. Organizers said this approach helps teachers better understand how hands-on learning can improve engagement and strengthen comprehension of complex scientific concepts.
“I want to welcome you to the city of Millbrook,” said Mayor Al Kelley. “This facility represents what we can accomplish when our city, local schools, and our community partners work together to strengthen education and support opportunities for our students.”
Throughout the day, participants rotated through activities covering renewable and nonrenewable energy sources, electricity generation, conservation and energy transformations. One activity, “Candy Collector,” used an interactive game to demonstrate the challenges of managing limited resources while teaching students the difference between renewable and nonrenewable energy.
“The YMCA is a partner and operator at this facility,” said Bill Myers, director of Grandview YMCA. “We certainly have a great community here in Millbrook. We cannot have a great community without great schools. Thank you for the investment that you are making today so that you can go back and invest in the students later this year.”
Participants also received curriculum materials and access to online educational resources designed to support continued STEM instruction throughout the school year.
“What you are doing is much deeper and much broader than you can ever manage,” said David Jones with the Elmore County Board of Education. “The success of these students are going to be because of what you create.”
By investing in professional development opportunities and classroom resources, organizers hope teachers create engaging learning experiences that spark curiosity and encourage students to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics in new ways.
