At St. Thomas Aquinas High School, curiosity is celebrated, creativity is nurtured, and academic excellence comes to life. This year’s STREAM Faire was a shining example of all three, as students across all four grade levels presented innovative, interdisciplinary projects that blended Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, and Math into one impressive community event.
From building functioning go-karts and engineering an anti-derailing system for roller coasters to investigating the science behind Italian ice and designing a fully operational laser tag game, students had the opportunity to showcase their passions in a hands-on, student-led format. The event featured over 40 exhibits, each offering a glimpse into the dynamic learning environment that defines STA.
This year’s STREAM Faire was the most ambitious yet, according to STEM Director Mr. Lewon: “I’m really happy with how this event turned out—we had a lot of complex and more challenging projects, and a wider variety compared to last year. It’s probably the best success we’ve had since we’ve been doing this.”
Highlights included:
- Wavefunction Collapse Algorithm – a mathematical model of how waveforms appear in nature.
- AI Traffic System – a student-designed smart traffic light system powered by artificial intelligence.
- Oobleck Pool – a crowd favorite interactive experiment in non-Newtonian fluids.
- “Murder at Graves Manor” – a forensics-based mystery inviting guests to solve a fictional crime using real-world logic and science.
- The Wonders of Dungeons & Dragons – a three-part project combining storytelling, mathematical probability, and character design.
- Custom Prosthetic Leg – a collaborative project from St. Joseph’s showcasing real-world applications of biomedical engineering.
Local grammar school students also presented projects of their own, bringing the greater community into the celebration of STREAM learning. Josh, from Saint Matthew School, shared: “It’s really fun event and seeing the STA exhibits is inspirational for our next project.”
Whether through kinetic sculptures, cloud chambers, or homemade Italian ice machines, students didn’t just present projects—they told stories, solved problems, and inspired others. For sophomore India-Lillie Randolph, it’s the best day of the year: “I love the STREAM Faire, and I love to see everyone’s creativity come together.”
The STREAM Faire is a joyful reminder that when students are empowered to explore what they love, they not only learn—they shine. Learn more about the STA STEM program and STREAM Faire at stahs.net/academics/stem
