Forest Municipal School District hosted its first-ever STEAM Fest on Thursday, December 4, at Hawkins Middle School, and the after-school event proved to be a resounding success. Approximately 100 students, families, educators, and community partners attended, making the inaugural event both engaging and well attended.
The STEAM Fest featured a wide variety of interactive science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity. Teachers from Forest Elementary School and Hawkins Middle School hosted hands-on stations, including a slime lab, crayon art activities, and a LEGO build table where students created their own designs.
Meaghan Huseman from the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science brought engaging natural science displays and hands-on materials. She also introduced attendees to a special guest — her tortoise, Beau — who quickly became a crowd favorite. Representatives from SR1, including Forest High School graduate Tatiana McNair, provided K’NEX building activities and demonstrated a robot for students to explore.
Industry partners Michael Autry and Jason Harrison highlighted innovative manufacturing processes and career opportunities at Unipres. The Forest Robotics Team showcased their competition robot, offering students an up-close look at robotics in action and generating interest in the district’s robotics program. Sgt. Delano Barney added to the excitement with a drone exhibit that included virtual reality drone demonstrations. “My favorite part was getting to build things and see how robots and drones work,” said a Hawkins Middle School student. “It made science and technology really fun.”
Students from various school clubs also played an important role by presenting STEAM projects, leading exhibits, and assisting with event operations, further reinforcing student leadership and collaboration. “Our goal was to give students hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and creativity,” said Dr. Ben Reiss, STEAM Coordinator for FMSD. “Seeing students engaged, asking questions, and working together made this first STEAM Fest a tremendous success.”
STEAM Coordinators Reiss and Kimberly Kitchens shared that plans are already underway for another STEAM Fest. “The enthusiasm from students, families, and community partners exceeded our expectations,” said Kitchens. “We’re excited to build on this momentum and bring another STEAM Fest to our community this spring.” Community members are encouraged to be on the lookout for additional information as planning continues. Submitted Story and Photos.
