February 6, 2026 — On a February evening at Simpson Middle School, classrooms buzzed with excitement, hallways filled with curiosity, and families explored learning side by side. STEAMapalooza, Simpson’s annual celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics, once again transformed the school into a vibrant hub of hands-on discovery and community connection. 

Hosted annually at Simpson, STEAMapalooza is more than an event; it reflects what happens when a school, families, and community partners come together with a shared purpose. Designed as an open-house experience, families explored the building at their own pace, engaging in activities that sparked curiosity and creativity for learners of all ages. 

A Schoolwide Effort Built on Collaboration.

The success of STEAMapalooza is rooted in collaboration. Planning for the event begins months in advance, with the Simpson PTSA working alongside two dedicated staff leaders to bring the vision to life. 

That teamwork extends far beyond the planning committee. Every teacher on the Simpson staff plays a role, whether facilitating activities, supervising students, or supporting setup and breakdown. The result is a schoolwide effort that reflects pride, commitment, and shared ownership. 

"Every single teacher on the Simpson team takes a role in facilitating activities for our guests, supervision, and set up and breakdown of this schoolwide experience,” said Simpson Middle School Principal D. Cory Stanley, “The coordination and collaboration of the entire neighborhood is truly second to none.”

Hands-On Learning for Every Curiosity 

Throughout the evening, families moved from room to room, discovering new interests and learning together. Guests experimented with household chemistry while creating slime and lava lamps. Students tackled engineering challenges by building sleds and spaghetti towers, testing designs and problem-solving skills in real time. Other activities offered equally memorable experiences. Participants explored what happens when arteries become clogged, handled live snakes, and learned the basics of coding with artificial intelligence.

Each station encouraged hands-on engagement, showing students that learning can be active, creative, and fun. Community partnerships played a major role in expanding those experiences. Experts from Georgia Tech Astronomy and the Ramblin’ Rocket Club shared insights into space and engineering. Students and sponsors from Wheeler High School’s National Honor Society, Society of Women Engineers, and Robotics programs connected with younger learners, offering inspiration and a glimpse into future opportunities.

Representatives from Cobb County GIS and the Watershed Departments highlighted how STEAM careers connect directly to the community students call home. Parents and local businesses also stepped up as exhibitors and supporters, contributing dozens of items to a silent auction that helped support future programs. Their involvement reinforced the sense that STEAMapalooza belongs to the entire Simpson community.

The event's impact was visible everywhere — in the smiles of students proudly showing off their creations, in families working side by side at activity tables, and in conversations sparked by shared experiences. 

“The result of this all-hands-on-deck effort is a building full of hundreds of smiling faces, learning about Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics in the best way possible, hands on,” Stanley said. 

STEAMapalooza continues to be a highlight of the school year at Simpson Middle School, strengthening connections with families and feeder schools while celebrating curiosity and creativity. It reflects Cobb Schools’ commitment to engaging students through meaningful, hands-on learning experiences — and to building strong partnerships that support every learner’s growth.

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