SIMCOE MUSKOKA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Grade 9 Students Take on the Future at "Future Forward" Challenge

SMCDSB's Professional Activity Center was bustling with STEAM generated energy as grade 9 students from across the board gathered to participate in the highly anticipated "Future Forward" STREAM Challenge. This dynamic event combined the excitement of science, technology, religion, engineering and English, arts, and mathematics (STREAM) with hands-on events aimed at challenging the students' creativity and problem-solving abilities.

Each team was tasked with completing three challenges, which emphasized creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving:

• Micro:bit Climate Action Challenge: Teams built and coded devices using Climate Action Kits to support one of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

•  Escape Room Challenge: Students solved math, science and language puzzles in a high-energy escape-room competition, testing their collaboration and problem-solving skills.

•  Climate Action Promotional Video Challenge: Teams created videos with WeVideo to promote their climate action devices and connect them to sustainability goals.

"This event is all about fostering a passion for STREAM while giving students a chance to showcase their creativity and teamwork," said Jeff Carron, STEM Program Consultant at SMCDSB, "They've truly risen to the occasion."

In addition to the student experience, the event was an opportunity to see how STREAM challenges can inspire young minds and prepare them for future careers in a rapidly evolving world.

"The level of innovation and problem-solving we've seen today is inspiring," said Diana Columbus, Secondary Math Itinerant Teacher. "It's a testament to the talent and potential of our students."

Students left the event with a deeper understanding of the power of collaboration, the importance of sustainability, and the excitement of tackling real-world problems.

The "Future Forward" STREAM Challenge exemplifies the board's commitment to providing enriching, hands-on learning opportunities that empower students to thrive in a fast-paced, innovation-driven future.