At Northpoint Elementary School, we believe that effective STEM education begins with well-prepared educators. To support this, all of our teachers have undergone extensive training in a variety of instructional approaches, with a strong emphasis on inquiry-based learning.  A cornerstone of our approach is the 5E Model of Instruction (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate), which is fully integrated into daily classroom instruction. This model empowers students to think critically and engage deeply with STEM concepts through hands-on, inquiry-driven lessons.  Our STEM programming is designed around real-world problem-solving. Through Project Lead the Way (PLTW) modules taught during STEM lab sessions, students explore state standards-aligned challenges that foster critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Additionally, our teachers incorporate Mystery Science lessons within the 5E framework, further enriching the learning experience with engaging, inquiry-based activities.

At Northpoint Elementary School, our teachers are dedicated to ongoing professional development in STEM instructional approaches. Currently, 100% of our teaching staff is trained in the 5E Model of Instruction, a framework that emphasizes inquiry-based and hands-on learning to engage students in critical thinking and exploration.  In addition, several of our teachers implement Project Lead the Way (PLTW) modules, which focus on problem-based learning and real-world applications of STEM concepts. To further enhance our students’ STEM education, all teachers have also completed training through Code.org, aligning their instruction with Computer Science focus standards and ensuring students develop essential coding and computational thinking skills.

100% of the teachers at Northpoint are implementing a STEM instructional approach in the context of inquiry-based learning. Since completing the training on the 5E Model of Instruction, all K-5 teachers are implementing Mystery Science Units as shown on the grade level curriculum maps.  PLTW Modules are taught during the STEM lab time.

Classroom teachers at Northpoint Elementary design lesson plans that provide all students with opportunities to collaborate with their peers to solve real-world problems. These lessons emphasize teamwork and critical thinking, incorporating both peer group work and cross-grade-level collaboration during STEM instruction.  By fostering a collaborative learning environment, we help students develop essential communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills that prepare them for success in and beyond the classroom.

At Northpoint Elementary, we are proud to offer a 1:1 device ratio for our students, ensuring seamless integration of technology into daily learning. Kindergarten students utilize iPads to develop foundational digital skills, while students in grades 3-5 access Chromebooks daily to support their learning across all subjects.  Our school provides a diverse array of apps and programs designed to enhance students' technology skills and foster creativity. Through these tools, students are empowered to create digital products, collect and analyze data, and conduct research that deepens their understanding of core concepts.