The Plasma Pulse

National STEM Week is about inspiring students to explore science, technology, engineering, and math in new and exciting ways. But let’s face it—traditional teaching methods often struggle to compete with the digital distractions of today’s world.

That's where Plasma Games comes in. This innovative, game-based learning platform transforms science education into an immersive, interactive experience, helping students master complex STEM concepts while having fun.

Calling all middle and high school science teachers! Are you looking for a way to energize your students, reinforce critical graphing skills, and dive into the thrilling world of motion and forces? Meet Star Runner, the motion game ready to turn your classroom into mission control.

In the 21^st century, the race to develop a competitive and specialized workforce is shaping national priorities. One of the most significant drivers of this effort is STEM education. To address inequities and expand opportunities, the National Science Foundation (NSF), under the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act, champions initiatives that engage underrepresented students, strengthen foundational skills, and prepare learners for evolving career pathways in science and technology.

The latest test results in Kentucky have revealed an alarming statistic: only 6% of high school students are proficient in science. While proficiency levels in reading and math have shown steady or slight improvements, science remains the lowest-performing subject across all grade levels. As Kentucky Public Radio reported in October of this year, these mixed results highlight the ongoing struggle for students to recover academically following the disruptions of the pandemic, severe flooding and tornadoes, teacher shortages, displaced students, and chronic absenteeism.

In classrooms across the country, a quiet crisis has unfolded for years. Chemistry—a gateway to many of the world’s most vital careers—has become one of the most challenging subjects to teach. Students struggle to connect with abstract concepts, teachers face burnout from disengagement, and the tools available often feel stuck in the past.

For Hunter Moore, this wasn’t just a problem but a call to action. Hunter Moore’s journey began with a powerful question: What’s the biggest problem we can solve that will make the most impact?

Imagine walking into a classroom where students are as excited to learn about chemistry as they are to play their favorite video games. Sounds like a dream, right? Thanks to Plasma Games’ Sci-Ops: Global Defense, this dream is becoming a reality for science educators across North Carolina.