Embedded Files
At Jefferson Elementary, our STEM culture is built upon a foundation of inclusion and deep community and family engagement. We believe that fostering a rich STEM environment is about more than just delivering innovative lessons; it is about creating a space where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to explore the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Our commitment to inclusion ensures that all students, regardless of background or ability, have access to high-quality STEM experiences. At the same time, we work hand-in-hand with families and the broader community to create a vibrant, interconnected learning environment that extends far beyond the classroom walls.
1.1 Decision-Making
1.1 Decision-Making
At Jefferson Elementary, our commitment to STEM education is deeply rooted in evidence-based decision-making. We believe that data, research, and measurable outcomes are essential in driving the continuous improvement of our STEM programs and ensuring that every student benefits from a high-quality, impactful education.
By analyzing student performance data, teacher feedback, and external research, we create targeted strategies that align with best practices and Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) STEM priorities. This approach ensures that our decisions are informed, intentional, and focused on improving student outcomes in STEM.
Links to 1.1 Artifacts
Jefferson STEM Leadership Team with Roles
Joshua Wall - Principal
Dan Graney - STEM Instructional Coach
Jennifer Long - STEM Coordinator/6th Grade
Isaac Merida -6th Grade
Jamie George - 5th Grade
Marc Andrews - 4th Grade
Shawn Longenberger - 3rd Grade
Julie Klepinger- 2nd Grade
Jessica Luchenbill - 1st Grade
Ali Jankowski - Kindergarten
Donna Propp - Digital Learning
Jefferson Stream Team.mp4Jefferson STEM Highlight Video 1.0
Videographer: Adrianna Pike
STEM at Jefferson (1).mp4Jefferson STEM Highlight Video 2.0
Videographer: Adrianna Pike
1.2 Common Work Time
1.2 Common Work Time
At Jefferson Elementary, Common Work Time serves as a cornerstone for fostering collaboration, professional growth, and continuous improvement among our teachers and staff.
This dedicated time, set aside each week, provides an opportunity for educators to come together, share ideas, analyze student data, and plan effective STEM instruction aligned with Indiana's academic standards.
It is an essential part of our commitment to maintaining a high-quality, innovative learning environment that ensures every student has access to meaningful, inquiry-based STEM experiences.
Jefferson Elementary’s New Wednesday Common Planning Time for STEM
Jefferson Elementary’s New Wednesday Common Planning Time for STEM
At Jefferson Elementary, we have introduced a dedicated Wednesday Common Planning Time for each grade level, focused specifically on enhancing STEM instruction. This new initiative is designed to provide teachers with structured, collaborative time to plan interdisciplinary STEM lessons, share best practices, and align their teaching strategies with both state standards and Jefferson’s STEM goals.
During this weekly planning time, teachers across grade levels work together to develop inquiry-based lessons and project-based learning (PBL) activities that integrate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into the broader curriculum. By collaborating on STEM-focused instructional practices, teachers can create cohesive, engaging learning experiences that build students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
This common planning time also allows teachers to review student data, discuss challenges, and refine lessons to ensure they meet the diverse needs of all learners. Whether planning hands-on coding activities or engineering challenges, this dedicated time is key to strengthening STEM education across all grade levels at Jefferson, ensuring that students receive consistent, high-quality instruction that prepares them for future success.
1.3 Sustainability Plan
1.3 Sustainability Plan
At Jefferson Elementary, we recognize that the success of our STEM initiatives depends not only on innovation and engagement today but also on creating a solid foundation for long-term sustainability.
Our Sustainability Plans created at the district level with each individual building in mind, ensure that our STEM programs remain impactful, relevant, and accessible to all students for years to come.
This comprehensive 3 Pronged Plan addresses the financial, curricular, and instructional components needed to maintain high-quality STEM education, aligning with the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) STEM priorities and positioning Jefferson as a model for sustainable STEM integration.
1.4 Measurement of Student Attitudes/Interests
1.4 Measurement of Student Attitudes/Interests
At Jefferson Elementary, student attitudes and interest in STEM are at the heart of our educational mission. Our hands-on, inquiry-based approach to learning has fostered a culture where students are not only excited about STEM but also deeply engaged in exploring how science, technology, engineering, and math connect to their everyday lives.
Whether through coding robots, building structures, or experimenting with real-world problems, students are encouraged to think critically, collaborate, and innovate. As a result, student enthusiasm for STEM continues to grow, with many expressing a desire to pursue STEM-related careers and showing increased confidence in their abilities to solve complex problems.
Through both classroom instruction and extracurricular activities, Jefferson is cultivating a generation of curious, motivated learners who are eager to explore the limitless possibilities of STEM.
1.5 STEM Program Engagement
1.5 STEM Program Engagement
At Jefferson Elementary, student engagement in STEM is at the heart of our educational approach. Our hands-on, inquiry-based STEM programs encourage students to explore, create, and innovate across a wide range of subjects, from coding and robotics to engineering and environmental science.
Students are actively involved in project-based learning (PBL) activities that challenge them to solve real-world problems, fostering critical thinking and collaboration.
Through opportunities like STEM clubs, Family STEM Nights, and community showcases, Jefferson’s students are not only learning STEM concepts but also applying them in meaningful and exciting ways, ensuring a deep connection between their education and the world around them.
1.6 STEM Instructional Feedback
1.6 STEM Instructional Feedback
At Jefferson Elementary, we believe that student voices are crucial in shaping our STEM instruction. We regularly gather student feedback to understand how our STEM lessons are impacting their learning, engagement, and curiosity.
Through surveys, reflections, and informal discussions, students share their thoughts on what works best for them and where they see room for improvement. This feedback helps us tailor our instruction to meet diverse learning needs, ensuring lessons are engaging, accessible, and challenging. By incorporating student perspectives, we continuously refine our STEM program to create an enriching and responsive learning environment.
1.7 Access and Opportunity to STEM Courses and Programs
1.7 Access and Opportunity to STEM Courses and Programs
At Jefferson Elementary, we are committed to providing every student with equitable access to high-quality STEM courses and programs, ensuring that all learners have the opportunity to explore their interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Through a diverse range of STEM offerings, including hands-on robotics, coding, engineering challenges, and project-based learning, students from all backgrounds are encouraged to engage in meaningful STEM experiences.
We intentionally design our programs to be inclusive, offering differentiated instruction and adaptive technologies that meet the needs of diverse learners, including students with special needs and those from underrepresented groups in STEM fields.
Jefferson’s STEM initiatives are supported by partnerships with local industries and community organizations, providing students with additional resources and real-world connections to STEM careers.
At Jefferson Elementary, we are proud to report that 100% of our students actively participate in integrated STEM education. STEM is woven into the very fabric of our curriculum, making it an essential part of every student’s learning experience. This integration is possible thanks to the dedication of our staff and the enthusiastic support of our community.
We engage students at every grade level with hands-on, inquiry-based activities that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Through this commitment, we ensure that every student benefits from meaningful, dynamic STEM learning opportunities that prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow.
STEM INNOVATION INTEGRATION SPECIAL
INTEGRATED STEM PLANS By Grade Level
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