The absolute horror of June 12 has been branded into the American consciousness. The massacre at a nightclub in Orlando is the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. Following the rampage, tempers are flaring, fingers are pointing and the verbiage is flowing. The word “historic” has been over-utilized to describe the event. My concern is that in the future, the mere use of the word “historic” will resurrect images and emotions surrounding that sad event and subsequent commentary.

However, there still are the “positive” events that only the word “historic” can describe.

For the past several months, this column has carried the theme of “come to Peoria Heights and experience the history, perhaps making history of your own.”

So, being consistent with “historic,” it could be said that history was made as 12 middle-school students (grades sixth through eighth) participated in the first-ever S.T.E.M. Academy, (science, technology, engineering and math) which was held at the Peoria Heights Village Hall and Pearl Technology from June 20-24.

The significance of the STEM Academy was tri-fold. First is that it responded to a very distinct need. There is a need to make young people aware of the careers available in the STEM-related fields. The National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity, in a recent article, stated that “The number of workers in science and engineering has grown from about 182,000 in 1950 to 5.4 million in 2009. Seven out of 10 of the fastest growing occupations are in STEM fields.”

Second, there is a need to expose students to STEM curricula. The project these young people created and completed was their unique wooden “Treasure Box,” which they programmed with their own “special knock.” The completion was evidenced in their knock disengaging the latch on the box.

A second significant aspect of the STEM Academy was the partnerships that came together with a common mission. The academy would not have been possible without them. Partners including Pearl Technology, Richwoods Township, Mid-Central Illinois Regional Council of Carpenters-JATC, University of Illinois Extension and the Village of Peoria Heights worked diligently for several months developing the “right” project, which would combine enjoyment, impact and education.

A third element of significance was the skills these sixth to eighth graders took home with them. Skills such as carpentry, team-building, circuit board assembly, code modification, tool use/safety and career awareness/interest were taught and modeled by instructors, career coaches and volunteers.

Yes, there is a great deal of fear, paranoia and anxiety being experienced due to “historic” events. But, there is still history being made which will have long-term positive impact.

The 2016 Pearl Technology/Richwoods Township STEM Academy has made history. I invite you to come to Peoria Heights and observe that history. Perhaps, you might make your own.