The learning and fun didn’t stop at Westmoreland during the summer.
The Zone for Imagination, Innovation and Inspiration (Zi3) once again offered three summer camps for students - - Star Wars STEAM Camp, Maker Camp and Mythological Bot Camp. 
The Star Wars STEAM Camp, for students ages nine to 12, took place during the week of July 8. Participants explored science, technology, engineering, art and math with a “galaxy far, far away” theme. They created their own Death Star laser beam, Rey’s speed glider, Luke’s landspeeder, Tatooine dome garden and R2-D2 that transmitted a hologram message.
“The Star Wars STEAM Camp was a great way to infuse pop culture and special effects from the Star Wars movies with the real science behind the creations,” Lisa Davis, Zi3 coordinator, said.
The Maker Camp, for students ages eight to 12, took place during the week of July 15. Activities included designing and building a no-sew lion pillow, laser cut jigsaw puzzle, painted ocean scene, sock bunny and spring wreath.
“One of my favorite parts about Maker Camp is not only students creating beautiful arts and crafts, but also how they work together and help each other,” Davis said. “When a student is struggling with a task, they are very good about lending a hand and offering a suggestion to make the process easier.”
Last, but not least, the Mythological Bot Camp, for students ages nine to 12, took place during the week of August 19. On the first day of the camp, students participated in a scavenger hunt that led them through Greek mythology and the many Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, Muses and Monsters. Students were then asked to create an animated house representing a Greek God or Goddess. Students planned, designed and built their houses, which included 3-D printed accents, hand-made details and lights, sounds and movements using coding and Hummingbird Robotics kits.
“Students also made laurel wreaths, which were often worn by the God Apollo because he was a champion and won many competitions, and Greek butter cookies,” Davis said.
On the final day of each camp, students hosted a gallery walk so family and friends could view their many creations. Davis says the camps are an important part of the Zi3’s mission.
“I really hope the students will take away not just the programming, but being able to collaborate with other students,” Davis said. “Being able to communicate and talk to each other using critical thinking to solve problems is a key life skill.”
The Zi3, located in the Upper Elementary School, is a unique learning space where students, staff and community members can collaborate, research, connect, design, build and develop new ideas. Past community events and classes include the Artificial Intelligence Family Fun Nights, Staying Safe Online, Google Tools for Parents, Coding and Robotics, Introduction to Flying Drones, Certification for 3D Printing and Laser Engraving, Painting and Pendulums, Cooking Healthy with Kids, Introduction to Cake Decorating, Munchies and Masterpieces and Muffin Making.
This summer marked the fourth consecutive year the Zi3 offered summer camps. This year, 61 students participated in at least one camp.