Hoover Middle School
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Leo Burt Participates in NYLF Pathways to STEM Summer Program
Leo Burt of the Town of Tonawanda, an incoming 5th grader at Hoover Middle School, is back from an opportunity that further developed his love for STEM learning.
Leo was one of more than 100 kids from around the country to take part in the National Youth Leadership Forum’s Pathways to STEM summer program in New York City. It’s a hands-on learning experience for elementary schoolers as they explore and evolve the STEM science field.
He was nominated by his 4th grade Gifted & Talented teacher Sara Malczewski and Hoover Elementary Assistant Principal Danielle Frye.
“At NYLF Pathways to STEM, students build the confidence and skills needed to excel in the classroom while gaining exposure to STEM fields and concepts,” said Amanda Freitag Thomas, SVP for Envision. “They learn how to adapt to and communicate in new situations, to new challenges, and with new people, which, given how rapidly the world is changing due to technology and innovation, are essential skills for success.”
“It’s definitely a proud parent moment that he got nominated to do this,” Leo’s mother Molly Burt said. “It’s something special.”
The program lasted six days as Leo stayed in the St. John’s University dorms and attended classes daily. The program focused on three different STEM pathways: CSI, Engineering, and Medical. Each pathway challenged students with activities and simulations like dissecting a calf’s heart, building an amusement park ride, and analyzing blood DNA.
“My favorite part was programming the robot,” Leo said. “I like to be on my computer and play games like Minecraft.”
“We knew if we didn’t let him do this, he’d be missing out on a lot of things,” Molly Burt added. “We’re glad he did it. I think he’s glad he did it. It definitely solidified what he’s interested in when it comes to the future.”
Leo is an active student and participates in Hoover Hoots, Safety Patrol, and plays the trombone. He’s also a 1st degree, Level 3 Black Belt in TaeKwonDo. Burt’s ultimate goal is to make it to the NFL, but says if that doesn’t work out, he’s hoping to go into computer coding.