Culture of exploration led to development of engineering, physics classes for kindergartners to third-graders

EDUCATION

In the bustling halls of World Academy, innovation isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a way of life. Our community thrives on the ethos of “why not?” while constantly seeking new avenues to ignite curiosity and foster learning. World Academy’s culture of exploration has led to remarkable program development in our engineering and physics classes for our kindergartners to third-grade students.

It all started when Molly Tibbits, one of World Academy’s proactive parents, stumbled upon an education grant forged from the collaboration of two unlikely partners: Hess Trucks and Baylor College of Medicine. This grant wasn’t just any ordinary funding opportunity; it offered resources in the form of Hess Trucks and an engaging curriculum designed to bring engineering and physics to life in the classroom. Without hesitation, Molly seized the chance and applied for the grant on behalf of World Academy school, with no inkling of what might come of it.

To our delight and surprise, our school emerged victorious, winning the grant and paving the way for a thrilling and fun-filled educational program. Dan Hughes, our esteemed engineering and technology director, enthusiastically embraced the challenge, taking charge of the grant’s Hess trucks and curriculum with fervor.

As the community engagement manager at World Academy, I witnessed firsthand the magic that unfolded as Dan introduced the new curriculum to our eager third-graders. What transpired was nothing short of extraordinary. Before even diving into the lesson, I observed how the students immersed themselves in structured play with the Hess trucks, their faces alight with wonder and excitement.

The lesson was a testament to the power of play-based exploration in education — a concept we hold dear at World Academy. Through hands-on engagement and uninhibited curiosity, our students not only had fun but also absorbed complex scientific concepts, such as force, momentum, friction and more, without even realizing it.

In that moment, standing in the classroom, I couldn’t help but marvel at the transformative potential inherent in our community’s generosity and willingness to embrace opportunity. Who knew if we would have gotten this grant or not? However, by daring to ask “why not,” we have unlocked many opportunities for our students, empowering them to learn, grow and thrive in ways we had not yet imagined.

At World Academy, we believe that learning knows no bounds, and we invite all members of our community to join us on this exhilarating journey of innovative education. Whether it’s through play or structured learning, we understand that every moment is an opportunity to inspire, innovate and make a difference.

So, let us continue to ask, “Why not?” for it is in the pursuit of potential that we truly uncover the magic of learning and opportunity. Together, let’s learn to play and play to learn, forging a brighter and innovative future for generations to come with our “World of opportunities!”

Jenny Maxwell is the community engagement manager for World Academy in Nashua.