News

Springfield 5th Graders Graduate from the STARBASE Program

11/19/07

On November 16th and 19th, nearly two-hundred 5th grade Springfield students graduated from STARBASE, an educational program operated by Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

The one-day-a-week program is geared toward 5th graders in the area and is focused on educating the students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through an interactive, hands-on approach.  Avetec, a local non-profit research company assists in funding the program so that 5th graders from the Springfield City Schools can attend.

The recent graduations were held at three participating schools, Kenwood, Snowhill, and Simon Kenton elementary schools.  Before the students were awarded their certificates of completion, they all watched slideshow presentations featuring photos from their five weeks at STARBASE. 

In addition, Avetec representatives spoke to the students about the importance of science and mathematics studies for the future of Springfield.  “Avetec and other companies like us need you as our future workforce,” said Cathy Balas, Avetec’s Director of Education.  “We are excited for you to understand the wonderful career opportunities that will be available to you if you graduate from college in a scientific or technology field.”

The students’ enjoyment of the slideshows was apparent as they watched the presentation.  The photos that usually received the most reaction were from the days they learned how airplanes stay in the air using Bernoulli’s principle, which they learned by toilet papering their teachers using a leaf blower.

Additional activities at STARBASE included learning to fly a plane on a flight simulator, building and launching rockets, and touring the National Museum of the Air Force.

Overall, the general experience with the program seemed to be exceedingly positive.  “I’m new to this school, so this was my first time attending STARBASE,” said a Kenwood Elementary teacher.  “The program was phenomenal, and my students are excited about learning math and science!”