At Garfield, teachers received specialized training in Beyond PBL through Project Lead The Way (PLTW) to seamlessly integrate STEM into their classroom lesson plans. Both the Computer Science and STEM teachers also completed PLTW Launch Training, equipping them with the skills to deliver engaging, hands-on STEM instruction. Notably, Indianapolis Public Schools has trained more educators through PLTW sessions than any other district in the nation.

The TechPoint Foundation for Youth further supported STEM integration by providing additional training in VEX GO robotics, enhancing learning opportunities before and after the Beyond PBL training. Pam Berg, the District Elementary STEM Coach, played a pivotal role by leading a hands-on training session in the STEM Supply Room. She guided teachers on how to effectively utilize STEM supplies in their classrooms and ensured that every classroom was equipped with STEM bins for early finishers. These bins are available in the three primary languages spoken in IPS—English, Spanish, and Haitian-Creole—promoting accessibility and inclusivity for all students.

Garfield is excited to incorporate the Activity-, Project-, and Problem-Based (APB) approach alongside PLTW into our STEM-focused programming. These dynamic methodologies provide students with enriching, hands-on learning experiences that foster critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration—essential skills for thriving in the world of STEM.

The district-wide curriculum and pacing guides have emphasized the integration of STEM across all subjects, fostering a cohesive and innovative approach to teaching. Teachers have collaborated to ensure STEM is consistently implemented with precision and dedication, enriching students' learning experiences.

Following their Beyond PBL training, teachers enthusiastically adopted the Activity-, Project-, and Problem-Based (APB) model to enhance lesson engagement. For instance, fourth-grade teachers introduced a Rube Goldberg unit to spark interest in physics after data revealed a lack of enthusiasm for the subject. Similarly, Earth Day became a school-wide collaborative effort, with teachers across grades designing interactive, hands-on activities that encouraged peer-to-peer learning and cross-grade engagement.

As a Culminating Activity, the Invention Convention transformed the school atrium into a vibrant showcase of student creativity and innovation. Students from all grades presented their projects, and peers from across the school visited the event, exploring and learning from one another's inventive ideas. This integration of STEM fostered a sense of community and excitement for learning, inspiring students to think critically and creatively.

Attached is a detailed overview of technology usage across each grade level. As part of the IPS strategic plan for digital integration, we are proud to be a 1:1 district, ensuring that every student has access to a personal device. This commitment empowers all students to engage with technology seamlessly as part of their daily learning experience.

Key curricular resources, assessment tools, and educational support platforms such as Dreambox and Lexia are readily accessible to all students, providing tailored instruction to meet their individual learning needs. Additionally, we prioritize the use of Clever for quick access to applications and Schoology for assignment submissions and classroom management.

Technology is an essential pillar of 21st-century STEM education, equipping students with the skills and adaptability needed for the future. Many of the careers they will pursue in the next decade—especially in technology fields—do not yet exist. By fostering digital fluency and integrating advanced tools, we prepare students to succeed in a rapidly evolving global landscape.