Embedded Files
The integration of an evidence-based STEAM curriculum into our classrooms school-wide while maintaining our identity as a middle school Fine Arts hub for the district is a focus and sense of pride for Memorial Park Middle School. With the majority of our staff trained in Project Based Learning through the work of our district’s IDOE Ford NGL PBL implementation plan, we have seen great leaps in integration of projects in our school. In addition to adding PBL components to our classes school-wide, we are also developing additional opportunities for students to participate in STEAM focused electives. Over the last two years we have added a sixth grade STEAM rotation with students accessing two engineering classes, a computer science course, and an art course with a digital focus. This should springboard our students into our seventh and eighth grade electives including Engineering & Technology and Computer Science. We are also working to add more coursework available to our second and third year students in the conceptualization of Digital Art and Music Technology. Weaved into our CORE Science and Social Studies curriculums are the computer science and employability skills standards. We pride ourselves in providing STEAM programming available to all of our students in various modalities throughout the school year and beyond.
2.1 Curriculum Integration
2.1 Curriculum Integration
At least 50% of planned, integrated STEM curriculum is evidence-based and aligned to Indiana Academic Standards. Our teachers also utilize numerous other high quality STEAM aligned curriculum platforms to strengthen our curriculum and enrich the student experience.
2.2 Curriculum Implementation
2.2 Curriculum Implementation
An integrated STEAM curriculum has been implemented with fidelity. Teachers collaborate and plan to create PBL opportunities for students that are based on Indiana Academic Standards. Teachers utilize skills obtained in Discovery Education, IDOE & FORD Next Generation Learning PBL Professional Learning Series and professional learning through The Center for Excellence to create these learning opportunities for students.
2.3 Computer Science
2.3 Computer Science
100% of students engage in computer science content through embedded units within grade-level specific science courses and our Applied Skills science course. Additionally, students have elective offerings at the 6th and 7/8th grade levels to further dive into computer science topics should they elect those courses!
2.4 Employability Skills
2.4 Employability Skills
Indiana's Employability Standards are intentionally incorporated within units of instruction throughout grade level classes for 100% of students. Additionally, our district provides further opportunity to learn, discuss, and acquire employability standards through the use of Naviance lessons and course materials.
2.5 Access and Opportunity for All Learners
2.5 Access and Opportunity for All Learners
Memorial Park has a very diverse population of students. Teachers collaboratively plan for necessary STEAM material development and refinement for diverse learners based upon their understanding of students' academic needs. Special Education co-teachers, Applied Skills and ELL teachers all work together with the general education teachers to plan engaging STEAM lessons in direct and integrated settings. Success for ALL students is at the forefront of our planning!
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