Fourth grade students from Ms. Toner’s class at Nassakeag Elementary and Mr. Gustafson’s class at Setauket Elementary recently joined forces for an exciting cross-school STEAM challenge called “Ship a Chip.”

With guidance from Ms. Janet Guglielmo and Ms. Toni Conlon in the science lab, students collaborated in small teams to design and build protective packaging capable of keeping a potato chip intact while being shipped through the mail to the other school. The challenge combined science, engineering and creative problem-solving as students tested materials and strategies to cushion the chip during transit.

Once the packages arrived, both classes livestreamed the grand unwrapping. Students eagerly examined the results, discussing which design elements were most successful, the challenges they faced and what improvements could be made for future attempts.

The “Ship a Chip” challenge not only brought science and engineering concepts to life but also fostered teamwork, critical thinking and collaboration across school communities.

Date Added: 4/30/2025