STEM

Science

Technology

Engineering

Math

STEM is all around us!

From the buses and cars that bring us to school and the buildings where we learn, to the exciting discoveries waiting on the playground, STEM is woven into every part of our daily lives.

This year, our STEM curriculum has centered on active, outdoor learning. We are making great use of the DCS Outdoor Classroom, which serves as a "Base Camp" for hands-on projects like building Sun Shelters and crafting Nature Bracelets. Students are also frequently exploring "Acorn Valley," our wooded area next to the playground, to observe local wildlife and collect natural specimens for their work.

We have successfully bridged the gap between indoor and outdoor learning by translating map-making skills from the classroom to the playground. It has been inspiring to watch our students—even those in Pre-K—use clipboards and pencils to document their surroundings with the precision of real engineers. From mapping equipment to playing animal-tracking games, our students are gaining a new perspective on the science all around them.

I will be posting photos of these adventures soon. In the meantime, please reach out if you would like tips on how to recreate these simple, low-prep STEM activities at home. I look forward to hearing from you!