Once a year, Raider intermediate students get a first-hand glimpse into the careers of STEM professionals in the Sunnyvale community.
“This is my absolute favorite day of the year! We have a large number of parents and community members who come and talk with our students about their career,” Intermediate principal Sara Staley said. “Their dedication to help show our students why STEM is so important and how they will one day use some aspect of STEM brings out so many ‘light bulb’ moments for our students.”
This spring, SIS students enjoyed learning about a wide variety of occupations including engineering, nursing, dentistry, horseback riding, magic performance (from a local magician!), organ transplantation, cardiology, forensics, aviation, city services, emergency services and more. Speakers brought materials and hands-on equipment to spark student interest and help develop them an interest in various career fields.
“Students get a sneak peak of what is involved in different career pathways during STEM Career Day,” Staley said. “They learn what type of post high school education they will need, learn about a day in the life of different jobs and the fun that comes with that.They are fascinated by the tools, wardrobe, and sometimes even the salary!”
STEM education is important for many reasons. It prepares students for future careers in a world where technology is evolving rapidly. STEM education helps students develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and analytical skills that will serve them well in any career they pursue. STEM education also instills a passion for innovation and creativity, which can lead to new discoveries and inventions that benefit society as a whole.
“STEM education provides students with skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the modern world,” STEM teacher Suzanne Valenta said.