100% of GCE teachers have been trained in implementing an integrated STEM instruction approach in the context of solving a real-world problem or challenge by attending in-house training on PBL provided by our District Instructional Coach through our partnership with Five Star Technology.

Exceeding the requirement of 75%, 100% of GCE teachers use a STEM instructional approach in the context of solving real-world problems or challenges. In the spring of 2022, all teachers used Engineering is Elementary and Picture Perfect STEM along with the Engineering Design Process to create solutions to a real world problem or challenge.

Successful group work is crucial in students' development and understanding of the design process and critical thinking skills needed to complete collaborative work. Over 70% of GCE's certified teachers, which exceeds the required 50%, provide students with the opportunity to collaborate with peers based upon STEM project/intended outcomes at least twice a week. Students also collaborate with peers with at least one assigned role that is critical to a successful project/goal completion in 67% of certified teacher's classrooms. Accountability for students' roles and contributions to the final outcome or product is measured with individual and group rubrics.

At GCE, students use a variety of technological programs on a daily basis. Being a 1:1 blended learning school, it is beneficial for students to use an appropriate amount of varied technology programs to enhance their learning and exploration.

Teachers at Graham Creek Elementary spend a specific amount of time collaborating and planning STEM enriched lessons and activities. All grade levels implement STEM learning at least once, if not more, on a quarterly basis. Samples of collaboration minutes and lesson plans are shown to demonstrate the unique and strategically prepared units and activities for our students.