Valdez High School Kicks Off the Year with a “Tacos and Tech Fiesta”

Valdez High School launched the new school year in true T3 style — with creativity, collaboration, and tacos! The Tacos and Tech Fiesta brought together 20 curious students eager to learn what T3 is all about. By the end of the day, 12 new members had officially joined the Valdez T3 Club!

The event began with a growth mindset engineering challenge that got everyone thinking, building, and laughing. Using just 20 spaghetti sticks and 10 mini marshmallows, teams competed to build the tallest free-standing tower. The winning design reached an impressive 150 cm tall! While some towers took dramatic tumbles, every student demonstrated creativity, persistence, and a growth mindset — key ingredients for innovation.

After the challenge, students reflected on what it means to embrace a growth mindset and began brainstorming their vision for the year. A shared mission quickly emerged: giving back to the community that has given us so much.

Some of the exciting project ideas include:

• Library Auction Basket: Creating a themed basket filled with 3D-printed and laser-cut items for the local library’s fundraiser.

• Cookie Kits for Seniors: Designing custom Valdez cookie cutters and assembling Cookie Kits to share with local seniors — along with volunteering to shovel driveways this winter.

• Community Clothing Swap: Bringing back the popular Clothing Swap in February 2026! The club plans to expand the event and promote it earlier to encourage donations during winter closet clean-outs.

Students also shared a desire to explore opportunities beyond Valdez. Since none of the attendees had ever visited the University of Alaska Fairbanks, they’re planning a spring trip to the UAF Hacker Lab and Makerspace. To earn their spot, each student will complete their 3D printing and laser cutting badges — a fun and skill-building challenge that starts with a Halloween Village project.

After a morning of creativity and collaboration, students gathered for a well-deserved taco lunch — the perfect way to wrap up an inspiring day.

The Tacos and Tech Fiesta was a huge success, setting the tone for a year of innovation, service, and community connection.