January 20, 2024 was a cold morning, but the kids who had registered for Junior Auxiliary’s STEAMpunk Academy stayed warm enjoying a fun-filled 3 hours of STEAM hands-on projects.

Science – Paula DeHart retired teacher and JA member presented a lesson about clouds and how rain is formed in clouds. The kids then made a cloud and caused it to rain.

Technology- The Taney County Sheriff Dept represented by Deputy CJ Oseth demonstrated some of the fun new technology the Sheriff’s Department has to offer. One item was a helmet you can wear and be able to hear 100 ft away. The kids also had digital Finger Prints done for their parents to keep in the car.

Engineering- Wally Baur from Baur Boys Express Plumbing – Kids built a pipe with clamps and a spigot and made sure the water would flow through the pipe.

Art- Julie Ann Zetina taught clay making. Kids will be able to pick up their finished pieces once the clay is fired.

Math- Coding with Legos was taught by retired teacher and JA member Kelly Anstaett. Kids were able to learn beginner concept computer coding using Legos and mazes.

As the kids completed each STEAM booth project, they had their STEAMpunk Passport book stamped. When they were all finished and checked out, they received a bag full of STEAM related items … Math and Reading books, Legos, and a Rocket Popper Engineering project.

One parent commented “Thank you for this amazing event. My son had a wonderful time and learned a lot. I did, too! We can’t wait for the next one.”

Several parents told us what a great event this was and that they hoped we would do it again next year. Junior Auxiliary ladies are already planning new activities for next year so spread the word to watch for this event again next January.

In addition to Junior Auxiliary of Taney County, other supporters/sponsors of this event were Baur Boys Express Plumbing, Binswanger Glass, Lazy Valley Resort, and Taney County Sheriff’s Office.

Published by:: Branson Globe, Thursday, February 15, 2024; Branson Tri-Lakes News, Saturday, February 17, 2024