White Pine's STEM Portfolio

 As part of Immersion Week , our 11th grade students had the exciting opportunity to visit Teton Toyota and explore the world of modern automotive engineering. Students learned how today’s vehicles integrate mechanical systems, computer programming, sensors, and efficiency design to enhance both performance and safety. During the visit, Teton Toyota’s team walked students through the engineering behind the engines, and students were able to ask questions, examine engine components up close, and gain insight into real career pathways in the automotive and technology fields. This experience helped students see the direct connection between physics, math, computer science, and real-world innovation —a core goal of Immersion Week. It also highlighted how STEM careers can be found in industries all around our community. We are grateful to Teton Toyota for opening their doors, sharing their expertise, and supporting student learning beyond the classroom. Partnerships like these hel...

Our gymnasium was filled with excitement, curiosity, and compassion as our 3rd grade students hosted their Endangered Species Conservation Showcase . This project invited students to explore the challenges faced by endangered animals and to understand how human actions can help protect and preserve wildlife across the globe. Students worked in research teams to identify an endangered species, gather information from credible sources, and develop a presentation to share with classmates, families, and visitors. To deepen their understanding, students also created hand-built models that represented the habitats, features, or behaviors of the animals they studied. This hands-on project combined elements of science, literacy, communication, and design , while also nurturing empathy and global awareness. Alongside their research, students worked together to raise funds to support real-world conservation organizations , applying their learning to make a meaningful impact. We are so proud ...

We are excited to celebrate a special achievement from this year’s Ammon Pumpkin Walk , where our STEM Academy earned first place in the school division ! This community event is known for its creativity, craftsmanship, and festive spirit—and our students rose to the challenge with a display that truly stood out. This project blended art, engineering design, problem-solving, and collaboration , reflecting the heart of what STEM-based learning looks like at White Pine. Students worked through the entire creative process: brainstorming concepts, sketching designs, constructing display elements, testing stability, and refining details. Their commitment to quality and teamwork paid off in an impressive final result that showcased both imagination and technical skill. A special thank you goes to Mrs. Heather Smith , who led the project with vision, enthusiasm, and countless hours of support. We also extend our appreciation to Mr. Olsen and his STEM Workshop students , whose hands-on abili...

This week, Mrs. Kaufman and a group of STEM Academy students had the opportunity to visit the College of Eastern Idaho (CEI) to learn about their Mechatronics and Energy Systems Technology programs. Students explored real-world applications of automation, circuitry, power systems, and mechanical controls—all foundational skills for many high-demand STEM careers. During the visit, students had hands-on interaction with industry equipment and were able to ask questions about technical training pathways, certifications, and future employment opportunities. Experiences like these help students make meaningful connections between classroom learning and real-world careers, while also expanding their vision of what is possible after high school. We are grateful to CEI for welcoming our students, providing guidance, and supporting early exploration of STEM-related career fields. Partnerships like this strengthen our mission to prepare students to become confident, capable problem-solvers...