This spring, Rodeph Sholom School once again transformed its 79th Street campus into a vibrant showcase of student achievement with two signature annual events: the Middle School STEM Expo and the All School Arts Festival. These beloved traditions highlight the school’s commitment to fostering both scientific inquiry and creative expression across all grade levels.
Middle School STEM Expo: A Celebration of Scientific Inquiry
Families from all divisions gathered to witness the impressive results of weeks of hands-on STEM exploration by middle school students. Under the guidance of Science Department Chair John Parente, students demonstrated critical thinking skills and scientific expertise through a variety of innovative projects.
“Our young scientists and engineers have developed crucial skills—from forming hypotheses and gathering data to analyzing results and creating innovative solutions,” explained Mr. Parente, who organized the event and orchestrated the highly anticipated bridge-building competition.
“We are very proud of the students’ hard work in and out of the classroom. These events showcase how well they apply their scientific knowledge, critical thinking, math skills, and artistic talents to create truly unique projects.”
The evening featured grade-specific presentations throughout the event:
5th Grade students showcased their unique plant creations and seed models, demonstrating their understanding of Life Science by designing plants adapted to specific ecosystems with ingenious seed dispersal systems.
6th Grade students participated in the highlight of the evening—a bridge-building competition where structures built over the past two months were tested for efficiency, with the most efficient design taking top honors.
7th Grade students presented research on weather and climate topics, demonstrating how these issues present unique challenges while proposing potential solutions.
8th Grade students exhibited sophisticated research projects spanning subjects from antibiotic resistance and genetic engineering to renewable energy and quantum computing.
The event also featured a special Math and Design Challenge in the cafeteria, where students, parents, and guests could test their problem-solving abilities with engaging hands-on activities.
All School ArtsFest: A Canvas of Creativity
Following the scientific celebrations, the school community gathered for the annual ArtsFest, transforming the 79th Street campus into a gallery of student creativity spanning all divisions.
With Arts Department Chair Louis Glaser at the helm, the event featured an impressive display of visual artwork from every grade level, showcasing diverse mediums from pastels to collage while highlighting the school’s comprehensive arts curriculum. Throughout the evening, families explored exhibits highlighting the students’ achievements in studio art, digital art, drama, and music.
Live performances added energy to the atmosphere, with a carefully orchestrated schedule including the 8th Grade Circus, musical selections from 6th and 7th Grade Music classes, a spirited Glee Club presentation, melodic renditions from String & Guitar Ensembles, and performances by both the Beginning and Advanced Bands. Learn more about the music program here.
The ArtsFest highlighted the school’s commitment to artistic development across all age groups. Throughout the academic year, students cycle through different artistic disciplines each trimester, experiencing studio art, digital art, drama, and music before having the opportunity to specialize in 8th Grade.
Science Meets Art
These artistic explorations complement our rigorous STEM curriculum, with both pathways nurturing essential skills that transcend individual subjects. Through thoughtful process and creative production in both domains, Rodeph Sholom School students develop into reflective problem-solvers and innovative thinkers—capabilities that will serve them well throughout their educational journey and beyond. The interconnection between artistic and scientific thinking fosters a deeper appreciation for creative expression while building the intellectual versatility needed for future success.
Above, 8th graders used 3D design and printing to create parts for a Mr. Potato Head-inspired character. They built themed backdrops and brought their characters to life through stop-motion animation and storytelling.
These special events—both longstanding traditions at Rodeph Sholom School—provided a meaningful platform for students to share their achievements while demonstrating the school’s holistic approach to education that values both scientific inquiry and artistic expression.
As families departed each vibrant celebration, the school halls remained filled with the echoes and evidence of student accomplishment—bridges tested to their limits, ecosystems carefully designed, musical notes lingering in the air, and artwork adorning the walls—all testaments to another successful year of learning and growth at Rodeph Sholom School.
