It’s back.

For the second consecutive year, more than 5,000 of the school division fifth-graders will head to Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana for a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Lab Day.

Throughout the day, students will have the chance to take part in hands-on activities and learn about STEM careers in a real-world setting. In addition, all the students will see special performance from the Navy’s elite flight demonstration team, The Blue Angels.

“I know you will agree with me that these types of opportunities are critical for our students,” Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence wrote in his letter to fifth-grade families. “They provide new and insightful learning opportunities that both reinforce the state curriculum and division standards and also help students connect that learning to authentic experiences in the world.”

The school division is once again partnering with NAS Oceana to provide this opportunity to all of the school division’s fifth-graders at no cost. In addition, numerous community organizations are donating their time and resources to support the interactive activities for students.

This year’s STEM Lab Day will take place Friday, Sept. 15. Detailed information and permission forms will be mailed to the homes of all fifth-grade students this month.