And the winner is…
Valley Ranch students benefit from robust STEM and flood control education because they apply the concepts they learn in their math and science courses to real-world scenarios. This early exposure to STEM education introduces these bright, young minds to unique career opportunities and reinforces the importance of their education. IFCD 3 recognizes the importance of these efforts, hosting a yearly school project campaign that gives students an opportunity to flex their creative thinking and problem-solving skills while learning about flood control.
Our relationship with local educators – especially Ashley Hernandez at Canyon Ranch Elementary and Liz Watson at Valley Ranch Elementary School – has guided us in developing and refining this program of developing flood control models. Previously, students worked in classroom teams, but this year, students worked individually – often from home – to create individual models from straws, foil pans, clay and other materials. Despite working individually as a defense against the pandemic, the team aspect remained as students shared their digital clips of their projects for students and teachers to see.
This year, the students continued to impress their teachers and us with their enthusiasm and creativity. Some took very elaborate approaches to their models, sharing the different trials they used to test and improve their projects. Others chose simple, yet effective, demonstrations that reminded us that straightforward solutions are valuable, as well. The variety of approaches and ideas truly highlighted the healthy imaginations that children have. As we were helping prepare these students for the exercise, they reminded us of the practical benefits of curiosity and creativity.
The IFCD 3 team assisted in providing feedback on the students’ projects and we’re proud to announce that every student who participated is a winner. Each worked carefully to develop a traditional school project in very complex and non-traditional times. The strategic planning and problem-solving skills that they displayed mirror those that the IFCD3 team use while developing flood control projects in the Valley Ranch community.
We look forward to the work that these students will continue to do in school and beyond. Are you interested in having your students learn more about flood control or Irving Flood Control District III? Let us know! You can also keep up with the latest news about Valley Ranch flood control on Facebook and Twitter.