OKCPS Fourth-Graders Explore STEM at Devon SportsLab
Over 500 local students participated in interactive athletic activities that demonstrated concepts like force and energy.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Primary Education
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More than 500 Oklahoma City Public Schools fourth-graders explored STEM concepts through athletic activities at the second annual Devon SportsLab. The event took place at Devon Park, giving students a hands-on look at how science applies to sports.
Why it matters
This program aims to expand access to STEM learning for local elementary students by connecting classroom theory with active play. It highlights an ongoing effort to bridge the gap between abstract academic subjects and real-world experiences for children in the district.
More than 500 fourth-graders participated in the event, marking the second year of the program. While the initiative successfully hosted these students, the specific measurable impact on future STEM enrollment rates remains unknown.
The players
Oklahoma City Public Schools
The public school district serving families in the Oklahoma City area.
Devon Energy
The local energy company that hosts this annual educational initiative.
Oklahoma State University
A major state university whose student-athletes provided coaching assistance at the event.
University of Oklahoma
A major state university whose student-athletes helped students explore STEM concepts.
The details
The program uses interactive athletic challenges to demonstrate foundational concepts like velocity, force, and energy. By performing physical tasks under the guidance of student-athletes from Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma, children can visualize scientific principles in action.
Timeline
Oct. 19, 2026: More than 500 OKCPS fourth-graders attended Devon SportsLab.
The Home Front
This event reflects a broader effort to boost STEM literacy through local industry-school partnerships. Such programs are increasingly common as districts look for ways to enhance traditional classroom learning with interactive, outside-the-box experiences.
Families with fourth-graders in the district can look for opportunities to discuss the concepts of velocity and energy during home sports play. Check the official OKCPS communications for information regarding future registration or participation opportunities for other grade levels.
The takeaway
Programs like the Devon SportsLab make science tangible for young students by framing physics as an essential part of athletics. Parents can support this learning by asking their students to identify the force and energy used during their own weekend sports or playground activities.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in local learning at Primary Education.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Journal Record.
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