The wheels were turning on Saturday — literally — as students from First Presbyterian Christian Academy showcased a working electric vehicle they built as part of Holly Killough classes.

Students applied the disciplines of science, technology, engineering and mathematics to construct the electric go-kart-style vehicle, which they test-drove Saturday. The vehicle was built from a kit donated by the Coastal Electric Cooperative Foundation.

"We are proud of the innovative thinking and hard work these students invested in the electric vehicle project," said Whit Hollowell, Coastal Electric CEO. "We are glad we could play a part in empowering them to learn new skills and grow in their problem-solving abilities. But inspired teachers like Ms. Killough are the real heroes who bring project-based learning experiences like this into their classrooms and empower young minds to consider engineering and technology career paths."

Emma Fettes’ Research III and IV students from Richmond Hill High School also built an electric vehicle from a kit donated by the foundation. The two school groups met at Richmond Hill High School Saturday to compare notes, see results of the other class’s hard work and test-drive their vehicles.

The foundation also donated a kit to Bradwell Institute, where students are expected to take on the electric vehicle project next year.

The electric vehicle project is one of many similar programs supported by members of Coastal Electric Cooperative with their voluntary contributions to the Coastal Electric Cooperative Foundation each month through Operation Round Up. The foundation supports local-scholarships, the Washington Youth Tour leadership experience and Bright Ideas grants, as well as community needs related to food, health, shelter, safety and education.