Eighth grade scientists recently took on a powerful engineering design challenge—and it went far beyond the classroom. Using common household materials, students collaborated to design, blueprint, and construct working water filters, testing their ability to decontaminate polluted water while sharpening their problem-solving and teamwork skills.

“This project pushes students to think like engineers and global citizens at the same time,” said science teacher Nicole Schatzle. “They aren’t just building a filter—they’re learning how collaboration, creativity, and science can be used to solve real problems that affect people around the world.”

But the learning didn’t stop once the filters were built. This hands-on challenge is serving as a launch point for a global service project, where students will study the worldwide water crisis, explore how poverty limits access to clean water, and examine the real-life impact on families. Armed with that knowledge, students will organize a service initiative to raise funds and provide personal water filters to families in need through Operation Blessing.

Projects like this help students see that science has purpose beyond grades and tests—it’s a tool for compassion, innovation, and change. By connecting engineering, global awareness, and service, students are developing critical thinking skills, empathy, and a deeper understanding of how their education can truly make a difference in the world.