American Education Week, celebrated November 17–21, honors the incredible work of educators and the transformative power of learning in communities across the country. It’s a moment to recognize not only what schools accomplish today but how they prepare students for tomorrow. That future-focused mission is at the heart of Inventionland Education, a leader in Innovation Science, applied STEM, immersive Innovation Labs®, and real-world career exploration for K–12 students.

Bringing Learning to Life Through Innovation Labs®

Inventionland Education’s award-winning Innovation Labs spark imagination the second students walk through the door. These immersive environments, ranging from tech-driven maker spaces to CTE environments and career exploration areas, transform traditional schools into vibrant hubs of creativity.

But the magic extends far beyond aesthetics. Inside each Innovation Lab, students engage in hands-on design, invention, and problem-solving. They learn to collaborate, think critically, test prototypes, and pitch ideas, mirroring the real-world processes of engineers, designers, and entrepreneurs. For schools celebrating American Education Week, Innovation Labs offer a powerful example of how physical learning spaces can inspire deeper engagement and prepare students with skills they’ll use for life.

Innovation Science: Career Exploration Leveraging Applied STEM

At the center of each lab is Inventionland Education’s Innovation Science curriculum, which guides elementary, middle, and high school learners through a step-by-step process for invention and innovation. Students don’t simply read about careers; they experience them.

Through projects aligned with the scientific method, but with an entrepreneurial emphasis, the curriculum connects engineering, product design, environmental science, digital media, business, and more. Students see firsthand how classroom concepts translate into meaningful future pathways. They explore careers early, build confidence as creators, and understand how their passions can evolve into professional opportunities.

This early exposure is essential to career readiness, helping students make informed decisions in high school, college, and beyond.

Professional Learning That Empowers Educators

American Education Week also celebrates teachers, and Inventionland Education is committed to supporting them every step of the way. The organization’s professional learning experiences equip educators with the skills, tools, and confidence to facilitate hands-on innovation and the use of maker machines in their classrooms.

Teachers learn how to guide students through design challenges, encourage entrepreneurial thinking, and create inclusive environments where every child feels empowered to try, fail, improve, and succeed.

Invention Contests That Build Real-World Skills

Inventionland Education’s national invention contests bring authentic innovation to life. Students develop products, create prototypes, pitch ideas, and showcase their creativity, gaining valuable communication and problem-solving abilities essential for future careers. The 2025 Invention Contest was featured on the Science and Discovery Channels through the Telly award-winning TV show “Tomorrow’s World Today.”  You can stream the world premiere of Inventionland Education here.

A Future-Ready Vision for K–12 Education

As schools celebrate American Education Week, Inventionland Education stands as a partner committed to helping schools and districts prepare students for a changing world. Through Innovation Labs, Innovation Science, professional learning, and invention contests, they inspire students to dream big and equip them with the skills to turn those dreams into careers.

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A Celebration of Student Innovation

The featured segment highlights Inventionland Education’s 2025 Invention Contest, a national event that brings together some of the brightest and most imaginative young minds. Students who have won their local school competitions earn the opportunity to pitch their inventions at Inventionland’s world headquarters in Pittsburgh, PA.

This capstone event is more than just a contest; it is the culmination of months of creativity, hard work, and learning. The students face the exciting challenge of presenting their ideas to a panel of judges, who will evaluate ingenuity, problem-solving skills, and presentation abilities. Supported by teachers, parents, and the Inventionland Education team, these students gain invaluable real-world experience that will serve them for years to come.

Middle School Division Winners:

1st Place: “The Untie Not”

• Created by Olivia Adams and Samantha Preist from Grove City Middle School (Grove City Area School District).
• Product Description: This is a simple solution for shoes that come untied. A small mechanism gets attached to your shoelaces to keep the knot in Place.

2nd Place: “Need Guard”

• Created by Ethan Cooke, Elijah Lawson, and Gavin Purdy from Grove City Middle School (Grove City Area School District).
• Product Description: Needle Guard prevents losing the pump needle in a basketball, soccer ball, etc., as well as helps prevent it from breaking in the first Place.

3rd Place: “Crayon Cast”

• Created by Abby Borsa, Maggie Paxton, and Kinsley Elkins from Neil Armstrong Middle School (Bethel Park School District).
• Product Description: Have you ever had a crayon break while using it? This product is a cast for your crayons, designed to provide the crayons with more durability while in use.
  

Applied STEM in Action

At the heart of this event is Inventionland Education’s applied STEM innovation curriculum. This program goes beyond textbooks, giving students the chance to explore hands-on invention and problem-solving in a way that mirrors real-world innovation. Through this approach, learners develop not only technical skills but also creativity, resilience, and teamwork.

The contest embodies the mission of Inventionland Education: to inspire a new generation of inventors and innovators. By encouraging students to dream big and pursue their ideas, the curriculum helps prepare them for careers in engineering, design, entrepreneurship, and beyond.

Inside Tomorrow’s World Today

Now in its ninth season, Tomorrow’s World Today continues to explore the worlds of inspiration, creation, innovation, and production. Past episodes have featured global leaders in science and industry, including NASA, Toyota, Caterpillar, and U.S. Steel. By featuring Inventionland Education, the program underscores the importance of cultivating innovation at the earliest stages of learning.

Viewers will not only see the competition unfold but also gain insight into how applied STEM education nurtures imagination and equips students with the skills to tackle real-world challenges.

Watch and Stream

The premiere airs Saturday, August 30th, at 10 A.M. on the Science Channel. For those who miss the live airing, the episode will be available for streaming on YouTube, with an encore presentation scheduled for September 28th at 8:30 A.M on Discovery. This provides multiple opportunities for educators, students, and families to witness the excitement of invention in action.

This premiere is more than a television segment. It’s a national stage for students to showcase their creativity, celebrating education that inspires inventing and reminds us of what is possible when young minds are empowered to innovate.

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Inventionland Education’s Applied STEM innovation course at Grove City Middle School has been a hit since its inception. This groundbreaking course empowers students to explore real-world inventions and innovations while leveraging their STEAM skills.

A recent highlight from this initiative is the success story of two remarkable young inventors, Mia Mertz and Madison Mulato, whose journey and creation—the No Cry Hair Tie—exemplify the power of applied STEM learning.

Invention Contest Winners and Their Game-Changing Product

While participating in the Inventionland Education course at Grove City Middle School in Pennsylvania, Mia and Madison noticed a universal issue: the discomfort caused by traditional hair ties. Driven by empathy and innovation, the two young inventors set out to create a solution. After rigorous brainstorming and design, they introduced a new hair tie, crafted with soft, flexible materials that prevent pulling and breakage. Their ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit, addressing the needs of countless individuals with thick or thin hair.

Viewers can dive into Mia and Madison’s journey from concept to creation in this exclusive video on this blog.

From Classroom Concept to Licensing Agreement to Amazon!

It quickly gained momentum as Mia and Madison worked on their product idea. After winning their middle school invention contest, they were invited to the Inventionland Education competition, where their product also won in their division.

Inventionland was able to help them secure an actual licensing agreement, and this past April, the product debuted at the prestigious Inspired Home Show in Chicago.

Now available on Amazon.com, the No Cry Hair Tie is a powerful example of how the Inventionland Education class provides a real-world framework for product inventions and innovations.

Hear from their amazing educators, who explain the process and the value of going through the process, overcoming obstacles, and learning new skills.

And, if you’re inclined to try it, you can buy it on Amazon here.

Buy the No Cry Hair Tie on Amazon ›

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Supporting schools and educators in bringing these experiences to their students is paramount. That’s why Inventionland Education offers stackable Innovation Grants, which can partially cover the costs of our comprehensive services, including Innovation Labs, curriculum, and professional learning programs.

On National STEM Day and every day, Inventionland Education remains committed to nurturing the next generation of inventors, engineers, scientists, and creators. Through our award-winning applied STEM curriculum, immersive learning spaces, and professional learning programs, we continue to champion a future where every student can explore, innovate, and succeed.

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Inventionland, one of the world’s largest and most imaginative invention factories, offers schools a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of innovation and creativity. With 16 distinct themed areas, such as Davy’s Treehouse, our Inventalot Castle, the Inventionland® Motor Speedway, Discovery Pirate Ship, and Inventron 54 Robot, Inventionland is designed to ignite the imagination and demonstrate how inventions become real, tangible products. Whether you’re a school in the Pittsburgh area or would like to tour Inventionland virtually, Inventionland Education invites you to experience the magic of innovation firsthand.

An Immersive Innovation Experience

Located in a sprawling 61,000-square-foot facility, Inventionland is more than just a tour — it’s an adventure into inventing. Walking through the themed environments, you’ll see how creativity thrives in a workspace that looks nothing like a traditional office. Hundreds of original products have been designed and developed in this space, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the inventing process. You’ll learn about the design-to-market journey and discover how consumer products are invented and brought to life.

In-Person or Virtual Tours: Tailored for Your School

Schools have the exciting opportunity to visit Inventionland in person or virtually, making it accessible for classrooms across the country and beyond. An in-person visit lets students physically interact with the invention spaces, while virtual tours offer an engaging online experience that still brings the wonder of Inventionland to life. Whether exploring the pirate ship or marveling at the supersized robot, students will be inspired by the possibilities of innovation and see how their STEAM learning impacts every aspect of the inventor’s life.

Bring Creativity to Your Classroom

Inventionland’s tours are not just a visit but an integral part of demonstrating the value of applied STEM learning. The immersive environment nurtures creativity and problem-solving skills and shows students how imagination and ingenuity can lead to real-world inventions. It’s a unique opportunity for young minds to catch a glimpse of the future of invention and even spark their own ideas.

Book Your Tour Today

Ready to inspire your students with the magic of innovation? Book your in-person or virtual tour at Inventionland today. Whether visiting in person or virtually, your students will leave Inventionland with a newfound inspiration and a readiness to shape the future! Visit our website tour page, or contact Victoria Farrell, our experienced tour leader and Director of Client Services, at farrell.victoria@inventionlandeducation.com.

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Inventionland Education stands out in this celebration with its unique approach. The Applied STEM Innovation Curriculum promotes literacy and integrates STEM concepts in a way that is engaging, practical, and impactful.

Inventionland Education’s curriculum is not just about theory. It’s about practical, hands-on STEM learning. Students don’t just learn about STEM concepts; they create their own inventions or innovations, making abstract concepts tangible and relatable.

One of the critical elements of this curriculum is the emphasis on collaborative work. Students are organized into small groups, fostering teamwork and collective problem-solving. This group dynamic makes learning more interactive and mirrors real-world work environments where collaboration and communication are crucial.

Through this teamwork, students enhance their ability to work effectively with others, a skill highly valued by future employers.

In addition to technical skills, Inventionland Education strongly emphasizes developing critical soft skills, including creativity, communication, and critical thinking.

By designing and presenting their inventions, students refine their ability to articulate ideas, defend their choices, and receive constructive feedback.

This experience is invaluable as it prepares them for future academic and professional environments where these skills are essential.

Moreover, the curriculum’s hands-on nature makes learning more engaging and meaningful. Students don’t just learn about STEM concepts in theory; they experience them in action.

This experiential learning approach helps solidify students’ understanding and makes the subject matter more relevant. It also sparks curiosity and enthusiasm for STEM fields, potentially guiding students toward future careers in these areas.

Inventionland Education’s Applied STEM Innovation Curriculum is a prime example of how integrating practical, real-world applications into education can enrich the learning experience.

By celebrating National Literacy Month through such innovative practices, Inventionland Education enhances students’ literacy and equips them with the skills needed for success in a rapidly evolving world. This approach ensures that students are prepared for the next step in their education and ready to tackle future challenges with confidence and creativity.

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This program has already produced remarkable results, with two standout products—the No Cry Hair Tie and the Amazing Lid—gaining significant attention and success.

The Journey of the No Cry Hair Tie

Mia Mertz and Madison Mulato, students in the United States, embarked on an innovative journey through Inventionland Education’s applied STEM course while attending Grove City Middle School in Pennsylvania. They identified a common problem people with long hair face: the discomfort and damage caused by traditional hair ties.

Mia and Madison developed the No Cry Hair Tie with determination and creativity. This innovative hair accessory eliminates the pain and damage typically associated with regular hair ties. Their design incorporates soft, flexible materials and an ergonomic shape that ensures a comfortable fit without pulling or breaking hair.

Their hard work and ingenuity paid off when the No Cry Hair Tie secured a licensing agreement, paving the way for mass production and distribution.

This groundbreaking product debuted at the Inspired Home Show in Chicago in April 2024, the largest housewares show in the world, attracting buyers and sellers from 120 countries.

Already available on Amazon.com, the No Cry Hair Tie will hit retail stores later this year.

The Amazing Lid: A Global Innovation

Meanwhile, halfway across the world in Jordan, another group of students engaged in the Youth Innovation Project, a collaborative effort between Amideast, the Jordan Ministry of Youth, and Inventionland® Education, made waves with their own invention.

Students developed the Amazing Lid by working through the real-world 9-step method for inventing from Inventionland Education. This innovative product addresses a common problem by creating a silicon lid that stretches to fit most coffee and drink cups.

Like Mia and Madison, the students from Jordan secured a licensing agreement for their product. The Amazing Lid also made its worldwide debut at the Inspired Home Show in Chicago, where it garnered interest from buyers across the world. With its debut in retail stores slated for later this year, the Amazing Lid is already available on Amazon.com and other online websites, where it aims to solve the problem of missing card cup lids.

The Impact on Students’ Learning and Future

The success of these products underscores the profound impact of Inventionland Education’s applied STEM course on students’ learning experiences. Students develop critical thinking, creativity, and practical skills that extend beyond traditional classroom learning by engaging in real-world problem-solving. This hands-on approach enhances their understanding of STEM concepts and cultivates entrepreneurial spirit and resilience.

Moreover, the experience of bringing an invention to market gives students a unique and compelling story for their college entry essays. The journey from identifying a problem to developing a solution, securing a licensing agreement, and unveiling a product at a significant international show demonstrates initiative, perseverance, and innovation. These achievements highlight the students’ ability to apply their knowledge and skills meaningfully, setting them apart in the competitive college admissions process.

The stories of the No Cry Hair Tie and the Amazing Lid exemplify the transformative power of applied STEM education. Through Inventionland Education’s program, students like Mia, Madison, and those from Jordan are learning valuable technical skills and gaining practical experience in innovation and entrepreneurship. As these products make their way to retail shelves, they stand as a testament to the potential of young innovators to make a significant impact on the world.

Buy the No Cry Hair Tie on Amazon ›

Buy the Amazing Lid on Amazon ›

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Making Learning Interactive and Hands-On

Inventionland Education’s curriculum transforms traditional classroom dynamics by making learning interactive and hands-on. By focusing on inventing, students are not merely passive recipients of information but become active creators. This experiential learning process helps students understand and apply STEM principles in real-world contexts, which enhances retention and deepens understanding. For instance, when students create prototypes or models, they use math and science principles, seeing firsthand the implications of their actions.

Fostering Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills

A vital component of the Inventionland curriculum is its emphasis on creativity and innovation. Students are encouraged to think outside the box and develop inventive solutions to problems. This makes learning more enjoyable and cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By navigating the process of invention — from ideation to creation — students learn to tackle challenges, think sequentially, and develop resilience in the face of setbacks.

Collaboration and Communication

Inventing within the curriculum is often a collaborative effort. Students work in teams to brainstorm ideas, design prototypes, and refine their inventions. This collaborative environment mimics real-world STEM fields where teamwork and communication are essential. Such experiences help students develop soft skills like leadership, cooperation, and effective communication, which are invaluable in any career.

Integration with Core STEM Subjects

The Inventionland Education curriculum seamlessly integrates inventing with core STEM subjects. The process ties directly into math concepts, science, engineering, and real-world tech applications. This integration ensures that students learn theoretical aspects and understand how these disciplines intersect and interact in practical applications.

Preparing for Future Careers

The curriculum prepares students for future careers in STEM fields by engaging them in applied STEM learning through invention. It exposes students to the processes and mindsets prevalent in engineering, technology, and scientific research industries. Moreover, the skills students develop—from technical know-how to creative thinking and problem-solving—are some of the most highly valued soft skills. 

Inventionland Education’s Applied STEM K-12 Curriculum is a powerful tool for enhancing STEM education. By incorporating inventing into the learning process, the curriculum not only makes STEM subjects more accessible and enjoyable but also equips students with the skills necessary to excel in the 21st-century job market. Schools looking to invigorate their STEM offerings should consider innovative educational approaches that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical, creative applications.

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One of the most precious gifts a teacher can bestow upon their K12 students is the ability to think creatively and innovate. In a world driven by constant change, fostering these skills is not just an advantage but a necessity for success. Inventionland Education helps provide a transformative platform that empowers teachers to cultivate creativity and innovation in their classrooms.

Creativity is the cornerstone of progress and innovation. When teachers prioritize instilling creativity in their students, they equip them with the tools to navigate challenges, think critically, and approach problems from unique perspectives. Inventionland Education understands this need and provides educators with a comprehensive framework to nurture creativity effectively.

One of the critical elements Inventionland Education brings to the table is its emphasis on hands-on, project-based learning. Instead of relying solely on traditional teaching methods, teachers can leverage Inventionland’s engaging applied STEM innovation curriculum to create a structure that encourages curiosity and exploration. Providing students with a real-world inventing and innovation framework allows them to apply their knowledge in practical situations, sparking creativity.

Moreover, Inventionland Education integrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) principles seamlessly into its curriculum. This prepares students for the demands of the modern workforce and promotes interdisciplinary thinking. When students see that different subjects are related, they are more likely to develop innovative solutions drawn from various fields of knowledge.

The Inventionland Education platform goes beyond theory, providing a physical space where students can experiment, prototype, and bring their ideas to life through Innovation Labs®. These immersive and highly creative environments reinforce the concepts learned in the classroom and instill a sense of wonder and creativity in students as they witness the tangible results of their invention efforts.

In addition to fostering creativity, Inventionland Education encourages an entrepreneurial mindset. Students are not just passive learners; they become active participants in their education, learning to identify opportunities, take risks, and persevere in the face of challenges. These skills are invaluable in any professional setting, setting students on a path toward success in their future careers.

The ability to think creatively and innovate is a gift that transcends the boundaries of the classroom. By embracing platforms like Inventionland Education, educators can provide their K12 students with the essential tools to thrive in a world where adaptability and ingenuity are key. In doing so, they impart knowledge and shape the next generation of learners and workers for a far more inventive future.

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