Since 2021, Northpoint Elementary School has been making significant progress in embedding STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) into our curriculum with Mystery Science.  While aligning with Indiana Academic Standards, this engaging, inquiry-based program has allowed us to integrate hands-on science experiments with real-world problem-solving scenarios, making science both accessible and exciting for students. Additionally, the integration of Code.Org in our weekly Computer Lab classes has focused on teaching foundational computer science concepts such as algorithms, programming logic, and problem-solving techniques. As student interest in these areas grew, we expanded our initiatives to deepen their understanding and skills.

To further enhance coding and computational thinking, we introduced Sphero Bolts, programmable robots that provide a hands-on, interactive way for students to develop coding proficiency. Additionally, several educators began incorporating Project Lead The Way (PLTW), a rigorous STEM program focused on engineering principles, into their classrooms.

Last summer, we increased our commitment to STEM by offering more teacher professional development, specifically in PLTW curriculum training, allowing our educators to bring higher-level engineering and design thinking to the classroom. In addition, our entire staff participated in two consecutive years of professional development in the 5E Model of Instruction through ETHOS, a framework that emphasizes inquiry-based learning and student engagement in the scientific method. These initiatives have enhanced our capacity to foster a collaborative approach to STEM across all grade levels.

Throughout the past school year and continuing into this year, our dedicated staff has been instrumental in seamlessly integrating STEM into daily instruction. Our curriculum now reflects an intentional alignment between our Mystery Science program and our reading curriculum, providing students with a dynamic, multidisciplinary learning experience. Students regularly explore technology and computational tools in our computer lab, and we consistently incorporate mathematical modeling, engineering concepts, and data analysis during our STEM blocks.

In addition to these efforts, we have developed a comprehensive library of teacher-created, inquiry-based STEM lessons. These lessons emphasize hands-on experimentation, problem-solving, and critical thinking, all of which empower students to master essential 21st-century skills. At Northpoint Elementary, we remain committed to providing rich, meaningful STEM learning experiences that prepare our students for success in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world.

Northpoint Elementary School is committed to providing a STEM-based education to 100% of our students. All of our curriculum is fully aligned with Indiana Academic Standards and is approved by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE). Our teachers are trained in the 5E Instructional Model, ensuring effective, student-centered learning. Through inquiry-based experiences, our students engage with PLTW modules, Code.Org, and Mystery Science, integrating these tools into their classrooms for high-quality STEM instruction.  We also prioritize collaboration among teachers, equipping them with the resources they need to continually enrich STEM learning opportunities for all students. At Northpoint Elementary, every child has access to meaningful and engaging STEM education that supports their growth and development.

Over the past few years, Northpoint Elementary has been actively working to integrate STEM education into our curriculum. We have introduced several innovative programs and provided continuous training and professional development for our staff over the past two years. Our curriculum implementation plan offers a detailed timeline that highlights the milestones and progress of our STEM integration journey. 

Our district provides 1:1 devices for all students in grades K-5, ensuring that every student at Northpoint has access to technology. All students receive weekly Computer Science instruction, with the Curriculum Map outlining the specific times when Computer Science lessons take place. The master Specials Schedule further ensures that each grade level has a dedicated, protected time for computer lab. We utilize programs such as Code.org to teach Indiana Computer Science standards, alongside classroom technology lessons and digital citizenship standards, to provide a comprehensive, well-rounded technology education. 

At Northpoint Elementary, our teachers and staff are dedicated to preparing students for success in the workplace by embedding employability skills into our curriculum for all K-5 students. Each week, a different employability skill is introduced and practiced during morning meetings. The "Word of the Week" is featured on our live news broadcast and reinforced throughout the week in various classroom activities.  Our Project Lead The Way (PLTW) curriculum naturally supports the development of these essential soft skills as students engage in hands-on learning experiences. By integrating employability skills into both daily instruction and specialized programs, we ensure our students are equipped with the tools they need to thrive in future educational and professional environments.

Northpoint Elementary School is dedicated to providing an inclusive environment for all learners. Every student—whether in High Ability, Exceptional Education, English Language Learners (ELL), or general education—participates in STEM programming and computer science lessons. To support this, we employ a dedicated team of support staff who work collaboratively to ensure that all students receive the services and assistance they need.  Our approach emphasizes teamwork, as demonstrated by collaborative work samples that highlight the joint efforts of general education teachers and special education or support service staff. Additionally, materials and resources are continuously created and refined to meet the unique needs of our diverse learners, ensuring that every student has equal access to high-quality education.

At Northpoint Elementary School, teachers utilize a variety of assessment methods to provide meaningful feedback and evaluate both STEM standards and instructional effectiveness. These include rubrics, as well as formal and informal assessments, to gauge students' understanding of the curriculum. This diverse approach ensures that teachers can accurately measure student progress and adjust instruction to meet individual needs.