STEM beyond the AA classroom
By Julie Matuszewski: photo courtesy of Buchold family
Andrew Buchold installs his newest contraption, a “safe” to keep his baseball memorabilia secure.
American Academy (AA) engineering instructor Melissa Sitzmann loves to see her students using their free time to work on something that interests them – especially if they are expanding their science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) knowledge. AA seventh grade Castle Pines student Andrew Buchold is a student whose interest in STEM expands beyond the classroom.
While currently enrolled in science, Buchold continues to explore his interest in STEM engineering on his own time creating new and cool robots. Buchold’s home robotic kit has allowed him to create an infrared sensor remote controlled car, which Buchold coded himself.
Buchold built his most recent creation in between remote learning sessions. Sitzmann was thrilled to see Buchold creating a new robotic invention on his own, even though the contraption was to keep his sibling out of his room. Buchold decided it was best not to drill any holes in his bedroom door, so he turned the contraption into a safe.
Buchold said he plans to use the safe for his autographed baseballs, signed hall of fame card by inductee Richard “Goose” Gossage and his regional all-star team necklace. He has not decided what his next creation will be but is looking forward to the challenge.
