Harlan County Schools invites students and families from across the region to take flight into the future during Pathways to Purpose: Aviation and Engineering Edition on Thursday, November 20, at James A. Cawood Elementary School.
This highly anticipated STEM experience will be held in two sessions — from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and again from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. — giving families multiple opportunities to explore exciting, hands-on learning.
Hosted by Harlan County Schools and made possible through the partnership of The Lighthouse Beacon Foundation, The Be Elite Foundation, and Stay Plugged In, this event will immerse students in the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through interactive stations and real-world demonstrations.
Participants will have the chance to:
Pilot flight simulators
Navigate a drone obstacle course
Build with LEGO engineering and computer science challenges
Experience shoutcasting and streaming setups
Take on the classic egg drop competition
Learn from professionals during a mentorship panel
…and explore many other engaging STEM activities!
“This event gives our students the chance to shape the technology of tomorrow through the STEM of today,” said Greg Longworth, Harlan County Schools Math Resource Teacher. “We’re empowering the students of today to be the innovators of tomorrow. We are so appreciative of the organizations who are making this possible for our community. This is something you don’t want your school-age child to miss.”
Longworth added, “I’m reminded of the quote, ‘Don’t be afraid to be the only one in the room, but be the first so others can follow.’ We want our students to have the courage to lead, to explore, and to inspire others to join them on their journey toward success.”
Harlan County Schools Superintendent Brett Johnson praised the event as an example of the district’s commitment to connecting learning with the future world of work.
“Pathways to Purpose is more than a STEM event — it’s an investment in our students’ futures,” said Johnson. “When young people are given the chance to see, touch, and experience real-world technology, it ignites a spark that traditional learning alone can’t always reach. We’re grateful to our partners who are helping us provide these transformative experiences that show students the incredible possibilities waiting for them right here in Appalachia and beyond.”
Throughout the evening, students will rotate between stations to gain hands-on knowledge and exposure to a variety of STEM career paths. “We hope this experience creates curiosity — the spark that inspires students to pursue a STEM future,” Longworth said.
The event is free of charge and open to all area students and their families. A team of highly trained STEM volunteers will guide participants at each station, sharing their expertise and enthusiasm for these fast-growing fields.
Come see what’s possible when creativity meets technology — and discover how today’s curiosity can lead to tomorrow’s innovation.