Valencia Park Elementary School students launched creativity and innovation into the sky on May 15 during the school’s annual Rocket Day, a high-energy STEM event that has become a signature tradition for the campus.

What began in 2022 as a sixth-grade engineering challenge has grown into a schoolwide celebration of hands-on learning, with students proudly demonstrating teamwork, problem-solving and school pride. Led by sixth-grade teachers Dionne Sincire and Paul Ramirez, students spent six weeks exploring force and motion through an interdisciplinary unit focused on engineering design.

Working in teams of three, students researched, planned and built rockets using recyclable materials, designing systems for navigation, propulsion and recovery. After completing detailed blueprints and participating in test launches, students analyzed performance and refined their designs, applying real-world engineering practices.

On Rocket Day, the entire Valencia Park campus gathered to watch the student-built rockets launch into the sky, with Mr. Ramirez leading “mission control” to ensure each launch was safe and successful and Ms. Sincire using her DJ skills to teach the younger students the basics of rocket science as they watched.

Experiences like Rocket Day reflect Fullerton School District’s commitment to creating engaging, real-world learning opportunities that inspire innovation, strengthen critical thinking and empower students to explore future pathways in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Watch the rocket launch!