Fifth-graders Dominic Bisby and Ambrose King took on the challenge of building a Popsicle stick bridge to hold as many plastic Yertle the Turtles as possible.

“We learned how to build other stuff, but we think three sticks will work,” Dominic said. “If it doesn’t, we’ll try again.”

Ambrose explained they based their estimate on measurements.

“It seems to be working,” he said—shortly before they set a record with 21 turtles.

Their project was one of several hands-on activities at Longview Elementary’s Dr. Seuss-themed Family Engagement Night, which combined STEM and literacy fun.

Families rotated through stations like slime-making, button-making and candy stacking, with teachers leading classroom and gym events.

“A committee of teachers organized it; we wanted PTA parents to be able to come with their children and experience rather than have to worry about volunteering and putting it together,” Principal Tori Gillett said, adding the theme supported the recent “Seussical the Musical” show performed by about 60 students. “There are lots of activities here, but they can take some home to continue doing with their families there. I hope they’re having a good time learning with their families and demonstrating their skills they have learned. Parents hear about how well they’re doing, now they are seeing it.”

Each student could pose for a photo with The Cat in the Hat and received a Dr. Seuss book to take home.

In the “1 Fish, 2 Fish” room, Bryan Winkel fished and rhymed alongside his first-grade granddaughter. They had already explored “Hop on Pop” reading and painted flowers with “The Lorax.”

“It’s a well-planned fun family night,” he said. “I enjoy supporting her and her school.”

In the gym, fourth-grade teacher Mike Okumura ran races at the “Go Dog Go” station, where students tested LEGO cars they had built and modified.

“It’s like a Pinewood Derby, but better because they get to experiment many times with their car designs to determine which will make them faster,” he said. “These are good activities which encourage students to think, but they still are fun to do and they can do them with their families.”  λ