Welcome to STEM RtI at DIS!

Why a STEM RtI class at DIS? There is no doubt that the many students already know the answer. They know “the secret” about STEM at DIS, which is “STEM Rocks At DIS!!!," "It’s fun." "It is so cool.”

But what does that mean to a 5th or 6th grader? Does it mean that they are provided an experience that was enjoyable? Most certainly. But, in reality I know that it means that they were given a difficult challenge and the tools and time to meet it.

Now granted, many of them may not equate difficult challenges with fun, but they find out that successfully completing a new complex task is fun. They may not say that failing to get it right the first time is fun, but overcoming obstacles and persevering is. They may not say that working closely on a timed task with students they may not know is fun, but developing communication, collaboration, and self management skills is. They may not say that working outside their comfort zones is fun, but building self confidence and resilience in stressful activities is. They may not say that picking and sticking to one of many possible strategies with an unknown outcome is fun, but choosing among a multitude of correct strategies through critical and creative thinking to “win” is very fun.

Here are some examples of our "fun" STEM RtI activities.

Our "Why not?" Goal

Our STEM RtI Classroom is an integrated approach to learning through real-world applications and authentic assessments. It works for students of all abilities and levels. It develops a broader outlook on personal and professional possibilities. It develops what I call a “Why Not” outlook on what is possible for the world and themselves.

It goes something like this...

“Why not” consider a career in Engineering? I built an Angry Bird egg drop capsule that protected my egg from a 50 foot drop? “Why not” consider a career as an electrician? I once wired up an awesome Light Saber with LED’s and a battery pack. “Why not” consider a career in molecular biology. I once extracted the DNA of a strawberry with only 3 ingredients. “Why not” consider making my own multiplayer game platform? I learned how to code in 5th grade and I still have people downloading my game from Scratch. “Why not” work towards a career at NASA? I got to see real moon rocks when I was 10. “Why not” start my own business? I got to talk to a world renowned chef who left New York and started a successful food truck business. Why not? I have that passion, that drive, that inspiration. I got to look into a future and see a possibility that I never expected or considered before.

Students that consider a “why not” approach to learning and achievement succeed beyond our expectations.