As the school year drew to a close, John Paul II Catholic School’s middle school science students didn’t just coast to the finish—they engineered their way there! Under the guidance of science teacher Mrs. Nicole Schatzle, both 6th and 8th grade students took on their final missions of the year with creativity, collaboration, and real-world scientific thinking—proving that science at JPII is as dynamic as ever.

6th Grade Water Tower Challenge: Engineering Under Pressure!
To wrap up their PLTW “Energy and the Environment” unit, 6th graders were tasked with building water towers using minimal supplies and specific design constraints. The challenge? Construct a tower at least 5 inches tall that could hold water without collapsing—using what they learned about water pressure, energy transfer, and structural stability.

“Our students had to think like engineers and city planners,” said Mrs. Schatzle. “They applied physics concepts and creative problem-solving to build structures that were both functional and resilient.”

Students earned accolades for the tallest tower and longest-standing design—earning bragging rights and a memorable lesson in practical STEM application. “It was amazing to see their growth,” Schatzle reflected. “From understanding energy systems to manipulating structural integrity, they took everything we’ve studied this year and brought it to life—literally, drop by drop!”

8th Grade Lunar Lander: One Giant Leap into Summer
Meanwhile, the 8th grade class launched into their final project with a nod to NASA’s current Artemis II mission. As a culminating activity for the PLTW “Flight and Space” unit, students engineered lunar landers using basic materials with the goal of safely delivering their “astronauts” to the moon’s surface—no tipping, no spills allowed!

“This activity challenged students to consider gravity, impact force, and balance—just like real aerospace engineers,” said Mrs. Schatzle. “They also made meaningful connections to what they’ve learned about the real-life Artemis program and the exciting future of human space exploration.”

From bouncing landings to graceful touchdowns, students experimented with landing gear, shock absorbers, and capsule design—all while showing how science is not just about knowing, but doing.

As the calendar closes on another incredible school year, these final STEM challenges reminded students that learning is an adventure—and one that continues well beyond the classroom. Whether they're dreaming of future careers in engineering or just soaking in the satisfaction of a successful build, our Golden Warriors are boldly going where curiosity leads them.

Here’s to a summer filled with wonder, rest, and a well-earned break for our budding scientists. Keep reaching for the stars, JPII!