Catasauqua High School recently took part in the Career Ready PA Backpack Challenge and is one of seven schools being recognized for meeting the 100-plus artifact challenge.

The backpack challenge, held May 6-16, urged students to participate in Career Ready PA events. When they finished an event, they received a virtual challenge badge for their portfolio, which counted toward the school’s total.

In all, 1,340 artifacts were for the career portfolios of the students. This challenge inspired students to explore career opportunities.

Of the more than 100 schools that registered for the challenge, only seven earned more than 100 artifacts. They are Hasson Heights Elementary School, 306 artifacts; Arts Academy Elementary Charter School, 210 artifacts; Grove City Middle School, 143 artifacts; HOPE for Hyndman Charter School, 143 artifacts; CHS, 134 artifacts; CSIU Work Foundations, 113 artifacts; and Spring Cove Elementary School, 101 artifacts.

Reportedly, the three most popular sessions were Code Your Own Pixel Art (Erie Arts), STEM Adventure (WITF) and Behind the Screen with PBS39.

The backpack challenge was part of the Remake Learning Days festival across Pennsylvania. A variety of organizations hosted free events for all age groups and provided hands-on learning opportunities. Participating organizations included libraries, schools, tech centers, museums, play spaces, community centers and more.

Reportedly, 91 percent of STEM jobs in Pennsylvania will require some form of a postsecondary credential. Participating in hands-on learning is one way to learn STEM and employability skills.

The STEM career tree has many branches, and the Remake Learning Days festival allowed students to explore these skills.

Participants who earned more than 100 artifacts received a banner, as well as certificates of their accomplishments.