Culture
Culture
Embedded Files
To maintain a dynamic and effective STEM culture within our school, we continually evaluate and refine our systems and supports on an annual basis. Feedback from students, staff, and community members has been instrumental in helping us improve our programming, instructional practices, and community events. In 2021, we used this feedback to develop the current model, which includes a dedicated STEM Lab session each week for all students.
Building on the input from staff and the growing interest among students, we have expanded professional development opportunities. We now offer training for more teachers in Project Lead The Way (PLTW) and ensure all staff receive training through 1st Maker Space on STEM integration. This approach has enriched our classroom learning experiences, seamlessly integrating STEM into literacy lessons. Additionally, we continuously enhance our STEM Lab with new materials each year, responding to student interests. Our collection now includes a range of robots, building kits, and, most recently, 3D printers.
Our annual "Fun in the Sun" field day at Elm Road has also evolved, with more STEM partners joining us each year to provide hands-on learning experiences, influenced by student feedback. Community members regularly engage with students during library blocks, sharing insights on a variety of careers such as soil and conservation, aviation, and more. During physical education, professionals from local STEM fields, including firefighters and representatives from the American Heart Association, present to students.
Collaboration among our teachers has always been exceptional, with a strong focus on creating rigorous and engaging lessons. Recognizing the importance of collaboration specifically in STEM, we introduced STEM walkthroughs in classrooms two years ago, initially using a handwritten form. While this was an important step forward, it wasn’t as streamlined as we envisioned. To enhance the process, we now utilize a Google Form and offer teacher release time for STEM walkthroughs, providing opportunities for teachers to reflect on practices they observe in one another’s classrooms.
In the wake of the pandemic, we prioritized the return of after-school clubs and family events. Three years ago, our literacy team conceived the idea of combining a literacy night with STEM activities. This initiative has since grown into our annual "Love of Learning Nights," held in both the fall and spring. These events merge STEM and literacy through interactive games, engaging learning activities, and valuable family resources.
At Elm Road, we are committed to ensuring that all students experience a STEM-integrated approach to learning. Our teachers design authentic, hands-on learning experiences that foster deep understanding and engagement, helping students connect with and grasp key concepts in meaningful ways.
1.1 Decision-Making
1.1 Decision-Making
Elm Road has identified the key members of our STEM team, each assigned specific roles to ensure effective collaboration and success. This includes our administrative staff, teachers, STEM Lab Leaders, and other support personnel, each contributing their expertise.
To continuously improve the program, we have established a mechanism for gathering feedback from certified staff. This allows us to assess the program’s impact, address any challenges, and make data-informed decisions for growth. Additionally, various feedback surveys are given after specific implementation to gather feedback.
A regular meeting schedule has been set to foster ongoing communication and coordination among team members. These meetings will provide a platform for discussing progress, sharing best practices, and ensuring alignment with our school’s broader educational goals.
1.2 Common Work Time
1.2 Common Work Time
At Elm Road, common work time is built into the master schedule to ensure grade-level teams have dedicated opportunities for collaboration and planning. Each grade level participates in biweekly Teacher Leadership Team (TLT) meetings and monthly data meetings, with an expectation that STEM planning is a key focus during these sessions. Meeting notes are documented and serve as evidence of intentional planning, data-driven decision-making, and alignment with our STEM initiatives. This structured collaboration time allows teachers to refine instructional practices, share ideas, and create engaging STEM-integrated lessons that meet the needs of all students.
1.3 Sustainability Plan
1.3 Sustainability Plan
Our sustainability plan ensures the long-term success of STEM initiatives at Elm Road through a comprehensive 5-year strategy. Evidence of this plan is outlined in our Canvas Gantt chart, which highlights key components such as secured funding for future STEM ideas and innovations, professional development to address teacher turnover, and ongoing STEM instructional support. Over the next five years, the plan will also prioritize career exposure opportunities, collaboration with community partners, and investments in cutting-edge technology. These strategies ensure that STEM education remains a dynamic and integral part of our school’s culture, equipping students with the skills and experiences needed for future success.
1.4 Measurement of Student Attitudes/Interests
1.4 Measurement of Student Attitudes/Interests
To measure student attitudes and interests in STEM, we utilize student surveys that capture their perspectives on learning experiences, career exploration, and engagement. This feedback serves as valuable evidence of student interests and helps us gauge the effectiveness of our STEM initiatives. Based on the survey results, we regularly revise our plans and instructional approaches to ensure they align with students' needs and aspirations, fostering a deeper connection to STEM and preparing them for future opportunities.
1.5 STEM Program Engagement
1.5 STEM Program Engagement
Our STEM program engagement extends beyond the classroom, involving the entire community and key stakeholders to create a collaborative and inclusive learning environment. We actively seek feedback from families, students, staff, and community partners during STEM events and initiatives. This feedback is carefully reviewed and used to refine our program, ensuring that it continues to meet the needs of all participants. By prioritizing community involvement and responding to stakeholder input, we foster a shared commitment to delivering impactful and meaningful STEM experiences for every learner.
1.6 STEM Instructional Feedback
1.6 STEM Instructional Feedback
At Elm Road, we prioritize effective STEM instruction and feedback support to ensure high-quality learning experiences for all students. All teachers have been trained on the TES Walkthrough Model, which has been thoughtfully adapted to align with IDOE state standards. This model allows for consistent classroom observations and constructive feedback, fostering professional growth and enhancing STEM instructional practices across all grade levels.
1.7 Access and Opportunity to STEM Courses and Programs
1.7 Access and Opportunity to STEM Courses and Programs
At Elm Road, we are committed to providing equitable access and opportunities to STEM courses and programs for all students. 100% of students participate in our integrated STEM instructional program, ensuring that every learner, regardless of background or ability, has the chance to engage in hands-on, real-world STEM experiences. Through intentional scheduling, differentiated instruction, and collaboration with community partners, we create pathways for all students to explore STEM concepts, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare for future success in college, careers, and beyond.
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