Executive Summary

Manchester Community Schools

Located in the northern part of Wabash County, in the town of North Manchester, Indiana, Manchester Community Schools (MCS) is a public school system that is home to approximately 1,400 students in grades Pre-K - 12. Manchester Elementary School (MES) serves students in grades PK - 3, Manchester Intermediate School (MIS) serves students in grades 4 - 6, and the Manchester Junior/Senior High School (MJSHS) campus serves students in grades 7 - 12. The faculty and staff at MCS are committed to helping all students attain high levels of academic success and personal achievement despite veritable or perceived barriers.

The town of North Manchester resides in the Hoosier Heartland with access to thriving business and industry opportunities in areas such as agribusiness, advanced manufacturing, orthopedic companies, food processors, and senior living. The town is also home to Manchester University, a small private liberal arts university with a recently added School of Pharmacy. Many partnerships have been forged between the district and these and many other local/regional businesses. Because of the generous investments and commitment to excellence extended to our district through these partnerships, MCS has access to cutting edge technology, industry expertise, and financial support.

STEM Plan Executive Summary

In keeping with the purpose and overarching goals established by the National Research Council (of the National Academies, 2012) in A Framework for K - 12 Science Education (Framework), Manchester Community Schools (MCS) aspires to “ensure that by the end of 12th grade, all students have some appreciation of the beauty and wonder of science; possess sufficient knowledge of science and engineering to engage in public discussions on related issues; are careful consumers of scientific and technological information related to their everyday lives; are able to continue to learn about science outside school; and have the skills to enter careers of their choice, including (but not limited to) careers in science, engineering, and technology” (Framework, pg. 1).

Built on a foundation of literacy, the pillars of MCS STEM education reflect the three dimensions of the Framework, Scientific & Engineering Practices, Crosscutting Concepts, and Disciplinary Academic Standards. At the elementary level, STEM activities are woven into each grade level’s scope and sequence. Using phenomenon-based lesson hooks and “I wonder…” questioning, our youngest scientists and engineers are encouraged to be curious deep thinkers and innovative problem solvers. Learning intentions and success criteria (I Can statements) are developmentally progressive and focus on the process as much or more than product.

Evidence-based STEM curriculum delivered by extraordinary educators make MCS STEM unique. These exemplary courses are often used as models for educational best practices. Grade level Scope & Sequence documents include career exploration activities. Whenever possible, unit plans address college/career readiness and employability skills, as well as target the 4 C’s (collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity).

MCS engages faculty & staff in weekly PLC conversations focused on student-centered learning and driven by data and results. Professional development initiatives reflect the District Mission, Vision, and Strategic Plan. The district has invested in teacher training specific to project- and inquiry-based learning. Each building has established goals for STEM integration. MCS STEM teachers have presented at local, regional, state, and national level conferences and serve on a variety committees, advisory boards, and state organizations. MCS actively pursues grant funding to maximize STEM opportunities, PK - 12.