Athens High School engineering students assist SPARK Academy second graders build parachutes at Athens High School as part of the annual Eagle Buddy Engineering Design Challenge hosted by the AHS Career and Technical Education Engineering Academy.

SPARK Academy at Cowart Elementary students had the opportunity to participate in the annual Eagle Buddy Engineering Design Challenge. The project was organized and led by the AHS Career and Technical Education Engineering Academy.

SPARK second graders recently studied parachutes and designed their very own and test the landing effectiveness with help from the AHS engineering class. The students created parachutes with materials such as plastic bags, tissue paper, coffee filters, string, yarn and more.

“We always enjoy it when the SPARK second graders visit us for the Eagle Buddy Engineering design challenge. I’m always impressed with SPARK’s teachers and students. We’ve collaborated with them for the past three years, and I think it’s valuable for our high school students as well as the second graders,” said Michael May, Athens High School engineering instructor.

According to May, Athens High School Engineering students gain valuable experience through organizing and leading this STEM project for elementary students while recognizing the value of mentorship and the positive effect that it has on the community.

SPARK students watched and cheered as AHS Engineering tested the parachutes from a second-floor drop. This soaring STEM activity helped our second graders learn more about air resistance and flight before their upcoming Kite Day.

“The Eagle Buddy Engineering Design Challenge showcases why the golden rule, math and reading are all important if you want to be a great designer and person. I know the second graders have fun because I see the smiles on their faces. I feed off of their energy. This activity allows students to learn STEM through play and we hope it inspires the next generation of innovators,” said May.