Whittier embraces Massachusetts STEM Week

It’s Massachusetts STEM Week and Whittier is fully on board with an innovative, schoolwide project that immersed students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Students in several programs participated in building a multi-faceted, 18-foot lighthouse in the school lobby that will be featured at our Open House on Nov. 3rd, 1-4 p.m. 

DVC and CAD students designed the lighthouse, carpentry students built it, electrical students wired it, metal fabrication students crafted the copper top, masonry students installed decorative tile around the perimeter, plumbing students built railings for the top, and machine technology students cut and engraved brass plaques. 

Computer screens mounted on the lighthouse windows will display photos from the school’s 23 vocational technical programs and the lighthouse building process. A battery-operated light at the top will swing around to illuminate signs highlighting the 11 cities and towns in Whittier’s District.

“We hope that this project serves as an inspiration for all those who are interested in exploring a more technical approach to their education," said Whittier Superintendent Maureen Lynch. 

STEM week runs from October 21st to 25th and is organized by the Executive Office of Education and the STEM Advisory Council in partnership with the state’s 9 Regional STEM Networks. It is a statewide effort to boost the interest, awareness and ability for all learners to envision themselves in STEM education and employment opportunities, and complement the formal instruction happening in the Commonwealth beyond STEM week.

Last October, the inaugural Statewide STEM Week was a huge success with more than 500 events that impacted over 10,000 learners in every corner of the Commonwealth. Schools, non-profit organizations, colleges, museums, and business partners all participated in hosting and organizing STEM Week events for students ranging from preschool to college to adult.