Once upon a time, nestled between mountains and forests, there was a small but mighty state called Vermont. Looking at it, you might think it was all syrup and flannel, but those in the know were aware of a secret. Vermont was buzzing with creativity and scientific curiosity, thanks to a bunch of cool, innovative kids! Meet our hero, a quirky character named Virgil – a robotic moose programmed with the heart of an adventurer and a brain buzzing with electrical currents. Virgil was the brainchild of Vermont's STEM/STEAM whizz kids. STEM, by the way, stood for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. But in Vermont, they added an 'A' for Arts - because who said science and art couldn't be best pals? These kids were not your typical youngsters! No sir, they were mini Einsteins and Picassos in disguise. They could design a rocket ship before breakfast and compose a symphony by the time the school bell rang. They explored the mysteries of the universe, dreamed up innovative solutions to problems, and used their artistic talents to bring their ideas to life. Virgil would often join them on their adventures, spouting random science facts and cracking hilariously nerdy jokes. "Why don't scientists trust atoms?" he'd ask, a twinkle in his digital eyes. "Because they make up everything!" The kids would groan in unison, their laughter echoing against the mountains. From building tech-savvy treehouses to programming computers, the Vermont STEM/STEAM kids were the real superstars, using their skills to make the world a better, brighter, funnier place. Just like Virgil, they were proof that in Vermont, innovation, creativity, and a good dose of humor could go hand in hand.
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Give your child the opportunity to learn a unique Olympic sport while building confidence, focus, coordination, discipline, and strategic thinking at ALLE Fencing Club in Fort Lauderdale. ALLE Fencing Club specializes in saber fencing and welcomes students from beginners discovering the sport for the first time to experienced young athletes preparing for regional and national competitions. Youth beginner classes introduce children ages 6–12 to the fundamentals of fencing, including saber handling, footwork, distance control, fencing etiquette, sportsmanship, coordination, focus, and basic rules. Junior programs are available for ages 12+ and help students progress toward competitive fencing. With experienced coaches and a supportive training environment, students develop both physical and mental skills while learning a sport that challenges them to think quickly, move confidently, and make strategic decisions. Advanced and Elite programs provide additional training for experienced fencers interested in tournaments and high-level competition. ALLE Fencing Club also offers private lessons for personalized instruction and skill development, as well as beginner-focused fencing camps that combine fencing activities with teamwork, confidence-building, focus, and fun.
in 1985. Step Up, NNETW's first program, was made possible by funding from the Vermont Department of Education. 14 women were accepted into the inaugural 13-week course, which provided hands-on instruction in technical skills, plus strength and fitness conditioning, workshops to build self-esteem and employability skills, and education on labor law and employee rights. Parents of young women looking to build a career in the trades will be pleased to know that Northern New England Tradeswomen (NNETW) was founded in St. Johnsbury in 1985 by Ronnie Sandler. The organization's first program, Step Up, was funded by the Vermont Department of Education, and welcomed 14 women into its inaugural 13-week course. This program was designed to give them comprehensive hands-on training in technical skills, plus strength and fitness conditioning, workshops to help build self-esteem and employability skills, and instruction in labor law and employee rights. For over 35 years, NNETW and its Step Up program have been helping young women in Northern New England break into the trades. The program has been successful in giving participants the skills and confidence they need to succeed, and parents should be proud to know that their daughters have access to this valuable opportunity.