Leverett Elementary wins STEM competition

In a recent competition, Leverett Elementary students were awarded the first-place trophy from the Razorback STEM Big Cat Challenge, Dec. 9. 

The challenge between Leverett Elementary and Washington Elementary brought out the spirit of competition in the two schools that have cats as their school mascots. 

The event was organized by the University of Arkansas as a way to help give university students the chance to practice interacting with elementary students, with one university student serving as a mentor for each team of students. 

Students were asked to build a wind-powered vehicle to travel in in the fantastically inspired scenario of a zombie apocalypse. This building challenge helped the students to apply their skills in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

In addition to building the vehicle, the students had to ensure it was capable of carrying a golf ball while being moved by an electric fan on a track. 

The entire event was founded by the University of Arkansas Education Renewal Zone, which is a part of the College of Education and Health Professions.

Vinson Carter, assistant professor of STEM education at the college, spoke on the event's benefits. 

"The event gives our students an opportunity to gain experience working with small groups on a STEM challenge," he said.