BETTENDORF, Iowa (KWQC) -Families will get a hands-on look at science, technology, engineering, art and math when the Bettendorf Community School District hosts its annual Bett STEAM Expo on Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bettendorf Middle School, 2030 Middle Road.
The free event features dozens of interactive stations designed for kids to explore everything from robotics and chemistry to wildlife, art and engineering.
This year’s expo also welcomes special guest Alex Turner, the district’s 2026 Visiting Science Scholar. Turner, a 2012 Bettendorf High School graduate and research scientist at Google DeepMind, will share insights into his work on reducing risks associated with superintelligent AI systems.
Planetarium shows will be offered from 12 TO 1 p.m. at the Donald A. Schaefer Planetarium at Bettendorf High School.
Exhibits and activities
The expo includes more than 40 hands-on experiences. Highlights include:
- Birds of Prey — Scott County Conservation will present live raptors and teach families about native Iowa species and their habitats.
- Coding with Dot and Dash Robots — Putnam Museum educators will guide kids through block-based coding challenges.
- Inside the Hive — Local beekeepers will let kids try on a bee suit, explore real equipment and attempt a “Find the Queen” challenge.
- Building the Future — Russell Construction invites students to build structures using spaghetti and marshmallows while learning how ideas become real-world projects.
- Nuclear Safety: Source Seekers — Constellation Energy will outfit students in protective gear and teach them how radiation monitors detect simulated sources.
- Welding and Manufacturing Simulators — Kids can test their skills on virtual reality welding and excavator equipment.
- Instrument Petting Zoo — West Music will let families try out a variety of instruments.
- Stormwater and Erosion — The City of Bettendorf will demonstrate how rain moves through a city and how erosion-control tools protect waterways.
Additional exhibits cover chemistry, medical simulations, math puzzles, esports, beekeeping, wildlife, robotics, physical therapy, traffic safety, wetlands, and more.
To see more information about the annual event, visit here.
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