Dear Students, Parents, Guardians, and Community Members,
One of the many critical educational additions to Central Elementary over the summer was the creation of a state-of-the-art STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) lab, and our elementary students are already thriving from the benefits.
Second graders had a the opportunity to visit the STEAM lab on Friday October 6. Students participated in a culminating activity that put their knowledge of matter and the engineering process to good use. Each team built a tower (using predetermined materials) that could withstand a "wind storm." The joy in the room was contagious, truly learning at its best!
The STEAM lab is an innovative learning space designed to inspire and empower our young learners to explore, discover, and create. With the integration of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, this lab is fostering a multidisciplinary approach to education that is both engaging and relevant. All elementary students visit the STEAM lab weekly, connecting with what they are learning in the classroom, to deepen students' understanding.
Examples of projects that have been done:
- 4th and 5th grades worked in small groups and built shelters out of items from nature and the classroom that could withstand wind, rain, and snow.
- 3rd grade groups built inclusive playgrounds out of basic classroom materials.
- 1st and 2nd grade made Chicka Chicka Boom Boom trees and counted how many letters they could fit on top before it fell over.
- Kindergarten is starting the week of 10/23 in the STEAM lab and will be working on signing in and out of Chromebooks independently.
Here are some key highlights of our new STEAM lab:
Hands-On Learning: Our students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities that promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Creativity and Innovation: The lab encourages creativity and innovation as students work on projects that require them to think outside the box.
Collaborative Learning: Teamwork is emphasized, and students collaborate on various projects, enhancing their communication and cooperation skills.
Real-World Connections: Students are making connections between what they learn in the lab and its real-world applications, preparing them for future challenges.
Technology Integration: We are incorporating cutting-edge technology to enhance the learning experience, including interactive software, robotics, 3D printers and more.
Community Involvement: We believe that our community plays a vital role in our students' education. We have already received so much support in the form of donations, both monetary and in supplies. These have come from families as well as community businesses. (We are always looking for more simple recyclables, such as paper towel rolls, popsicle sticks, pipe cleaners, etc.) We invite you to get involved and support our young innovators as they embark on this exciting educational journey.
The STEAM lab represents a significant investment in our students' future, and we are committed to ensuring that it benefits not only our current students but also generations to come.
As we move forward with this innovative educational initiative, we look forward to your support and involvement in shaping the future of our students. Together, we can inspire a passion for learning and equip our children with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Nicki Kreuser
Elementary STEAM Teacher