As an educator, there are moments that remind me why I love what I do—moments when the perseverance of my students intersects with the incredible way that God has gifted them with creativity and problem-solving skills. Today was one of those days.
My students were given a challenging task: refine their original designs to launch a 1 kg projectile and hit a target just 2 meters in diameter from 25 meters with a “bonus” of hitting a small castle in the middle. It was a test of patience, precision, and determination.
I was absolutely amazed by their efforts. Each team worked diligently, improving upon their designs, making adjustments, and learning from their mistakes. One team, in particular, built a trebuchet that launched their projectile with such accuracy that it landed directly in the center of the target. But they didn’t stop there—using a counterweight of 300 lbs., they propelled their projectile nearly 100 meters!
One student summed up the day perfectly: “It is amazing what we can do when we put our minds to something!” What a powerful statement! It reminded me of Colossians 3:23, which says, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” These students worked with dedication, using the minds and talents that God has given them to create, innovate, and solve problems.
Even those who didn’t meet their exact goal showed remarkable perseverance. They studied their designs, made improvements, and demonstrated the kind of determination that reflects James 1:3, “Because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” True learning comes not just from success but from the willingness to keep going even when challenges arise.
This experience was more than just an engineering challenge—it was a lesson in hard work, persistence, and the incredible ability God has given us to think, create, and improve. Today, I saw not just future engineers and problem-solvers, but young minds growing in wisdom, resilience, and teamwork.
I couldn’t be prouder of my students, and I am grateful to God for the gifts He has given them. What a blessing to witness their growth and determination!
—Mrs. Tapperson
