The CREATE2THINK STEM Curriculum is the basis for Meridian's STEM Programming, providing a comprehensive and integrated approach to STEM learning. The curriculum is designed to engage students in hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences that encourage critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity.

Within each unit, students work through phases that build on their prior knowledge and provide opportunities to apply STEM concepts and skills to real-world problems and challenges.

In addition to the formal CREATE2THINK units, Meridian's STEM Programming also incorporates teacher-created units that integrate with Language Arts and Math curriculum. These units are designed to provide students with STEM learning experiences that are directly relevant to their other academic subjects, and to help students develop key skills in areas such as data analysis, research, and communication.

By integrating STEM learning with Language Arts and Math curriculum, Meridian School's STEM Programming helps to create a holistic and integrated approach to learning that prepares students for success in the 21st century.

2.1 Curriculum Integration

Meridian Elementary School implements the CREATE2THINK STEM Curriculum across their K-5 grade levels, leveraging its evidence-based design that aligns with the research-based 5E Instructional Model. The curriculum's phases are carefully crafted to promote student inquiry, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, the CREATE2THINK curriculum aligns seamlessly with the Indiana Academic Standards for Science and Engineering, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive and standards-aligned STEM education that prepares them for academic success and real-world application.

2.1 Curriculum Integration Meridian

Kindergarten: STEM in Action

2.2 Curriculum Implementation

Over the course of three years, Meridian Elementary has successfully implemented and integrated the CREATE2THINK STEM Curriculum into their instructional practices. Through engaging and interactive lessons aligned with the curriculum's phases, students have developed a strong foundation in inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, empowering them to explore the realms of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with enthusiasm and confidence. The sustained use of the CREATE2THINK curriculum has fostered a dynamic STEM learning environment at Meridian Elementary, preparing students for future academic and career success.

2.2 Curriculum Implementation Meridian

First Grade: STEM in Action

2.3 Computer Science

Meridian Elementary School ensures that all students have access to computer science learning opportunities within their building. Through a comprehensive and inclusive approach, computer science is integrated across grade levels and subjects, allowing students to develop digital literacy, computational thinking, and coding skills, preparing them for the technological demands of the 21st century.

2.3 Computer Science Implementation Meridian

Second Grade: STEM in Action

2.4 Employability Skills

Meridian has seamlessly integrated the Indiana Employability Skills into their comprehensive curriculum, ensuring that all students in their building acquire essential career-readiness competencies. By designing engaging lessons and hands-on activities, Meridian cultivates a dynamic learning environment that empowers every student to develop crucial skills such as communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and professionalism, preparing them for success in the ever-evolving job market.

2.4 Employability Skills Meridian

Third Grade: STEM in Action

2.5 Access and Opportunity for All Learners

At Meridian Elementary School, general education classroom teachers foster a collaborative approach by actively partnering with special education and supportive service teachers to ensure inclusive and tailored support for students with unique learning needs. This collaboration extends to STEM education, as teachers integrate STEM material and content into their lessons, accommodating diverse learning styles and providing equitable opportunities for all students to excel.

2.5 Access & Opportunities for All Learners Meridian

Fourth Grade: STEM in Action

2.6 Assessments

100% of the Teachers at Meridian Elementary School embrace a diverse range of assessment formats to evaluate the effectiveness of STEM learning within their classrooms. Through a combination of project-based assessments, hands-on experiments, individual and group presentations, and innovative technology tools, teachers gain comprehensive insights into students' STEM knowledge, problem-solving skills, creativity, and critical thinking abilities, ensuring a holistic evaluation that fosters continuous growth and development in STEM education.

2.6 Assessments Meridian

Fifth Grade: STEM in Action