At Madison Elementary, grade level teachers are dedicated to integrating a comprehensive integrated STEM unit with a context of solving a real world problem or challenge at least once per quarter. To help achieve this, Warsaw Community Schools adopted science curriculum is built on the foundation of evidence-based teaching methods. Project Lead the Way (PLTW) uses the APB approach, which engages students in inquiry-based learning to solve a problem in the context of a real world challenge. Picture Perfect Science/STEM seamlessly integrates the 5E model of inquiry-based learning alongside literacy learning. Additionally, teachers locally create integrated STEM units utilizing evidence-based teaching methods that integrate science concepts and engineering principles with foundational core concepts, integrated STEM standards, employability skills, computer science standards, and career connections. The evidenced-based teaching methods are not limited to just one: teachers use a variety of inquiry-based teaching, problem-based learning, and project-based learning, depending on the goal of the project. This impactful STEM instructional time is protected from pull-outs by being built into our core learning time. Once the unit is completed, Madison teachers use a variety of assessments (rubrics, exit tickets, journals, quizzes, reflections, and math performance tasks) to assess student learning.

At Madison Elementary, computer science standards are seamlessly integrated into both Digital Learning Special Time, STEM units, and core curriculum at every opportunity. During our Digital Learning special ("Innovation Lab"), students explore coding, algorithmic thinking, and digital citizenship through hands-on activities using age-appropriate tools like Scratch Jr. and Code.org. These skills are reinforced in integrated STEM units, where students apply computational thinking to real-world challenges, such as designing simple machines or solving problems through robotics. By embedding coding and problem-solving into interdisciplinary lessons, students develop critical 21st-century skills, fostering creativity, collaboration, and a strong foundation in both computer science and engineering principles. Additionally, teachers integrate Indiana's employability skills—such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving—into both school culture and STEM units. By engaging students in collaborative projects and real-world challenges, they cultivate essential skills for future careers. This early focus on employability fosters self-confidence, responsibility, and prepares students for success in any field.

2.1 Curriculum Integration

Madison Elementary teachers use a variety of evidence-based integrated STEM methods to design and utilize STEM units to solve a real-world problem or challenge. With Warsaw's adopted science curriculum, PLTW uses the activity-, project-, problem-based (APB) approach in its' units; these often explore science concepts with a project at the end that emcompasses all of their conceptual learning in tandem with students using the Engineering Design Process. Along with PLTW, Warsaw's additional adopted science curriculum is Picture Perfect Science/STEM, which utilized the well known inquiry-based methodology of the 5 E's. Furthermore, additional parts of the school day include integrated science practice and engineering principles as well as Indiana's Academic Standards. Evidence includes descriptions of integrated curriculums, curriculum implementation plan of the integrated STEM units, and samples that align to Indiana Academic Standards.

2.2 Curriculum Implementation

Madison Elementary implements its STEM curriculum through a structured evidence-based STEM unit. Teachers follow an implementation calendar to guide their quarterly evidence-based STEM units, which can include PLTW and Picture Perfect lessons. The STEM curriculum is integrated across various school subjects, providing students with an integrated learning experience. Teachers also use district science curriculum maps to plan when to introduce specific Project Lead the Way (PLTW) and Picture Perfect Science units each quarter. Madison also offers additional unique STEM activities, including coding, animal dissections, 3D printing, and annual creek studies. These specialized curriculums enhance students' STEM experiences, allowing them to engage in hands-on, inquiry-based learning that connects classroom knowledge with practical applications.

2.2 Curriculum Implementation

2.3 Computer Science

At Madison, students have a 35 minute weekly special in the Innovation Lab so 100% of students can be exposed to Computer Science. Each week the Digital Learning Specialist introduces a Computer Science skill and students complete a corresponding activity. Grades 3 - 6 are enrolled in Code.org and are assigned Computer Science courses as well as learning different coding skills. Grades K-6 also use Typing.com and Common Sense Mediafor typing practice as well as videos/discussion on Computer Science standards. Teachers also use a variety of computer science standards in their integrated STEM units.

2.3 Computer Science

2.4 Employability Skills

Madison places a strong emphasis on developing employability skills, recognizing their importance in preparing students for future careers and social interactions. Teachers prioritize these skills as a foundation for students to succeed in the workforce and effectively collaborate with others. Through STEM integrated lessons, lesson plans are designed to foster skills such as decision-making, collaboration, perseverance, and problem-solving. These skills are integrated purposefully within the curriculum, ensuring that students consistently encounter and practice them throughout their education. In addition to these STEM units, employability skills are embedded in grade-level project-based learning (PBL) activities, allowing students to apply these abilities in real-world contexts. This hands-on approach helps students develop critical skills by engaging in authentic, practical activities. To measure progress, teachers at Madison Elementary can use employability rubrics provided by PBLWorks and Project Lead the Way (PLTW), which allow them to assess student growth in these essential areas. Through this approach, Madison ensures that students are well-prepared for future professional environments.

2.4 Employability Skills

2.5 Access and Opportunity for All Learners

At Madison, we understand the importance of collaboration between general education teachers and special education + support teachers. This collaboration ensures that all students, regardless of their learning needs or abilities, receive accommodations that support their learning. Grade level teams have collaborative planning time built into their daily schedule, as well as weekly PLC time to collaborate with special education and support teachers. Grade level teachers, special education teachers, Aundreya Wegener/Monique Lyon, and ML teacher, Amanda Qualley, are able to collaborate on lessons that are rigorous and meet the needs of all students. This ensures that all students are receiving STEM education with proper supports.

2.5 Access and Opportunity for All Learners

2.6 Assessments

All teachers at Madison use a variety of assessments to promote a well-rounded understanding of student learning. PBL and PLTW projects are mainly assessed with rubrics noting look-fors and expectations such as design, presentation, appearance, and knowledge/understanding of the topic. During STEM activities, teachers also use check-ins, exit tickets, and journal entries to take a ‘pulse’ of how students are doing during the project. Finally, teachers implement student reflection sheets and presentations as opportunities for students to demonstrate what they have learned during these STEM experiences.

2.6 Assessments

Additional Evidence

First Grade STEM projects

1st Grade Additional Evidence

See 1st Grade's Slideshow of additional evidence of integration of STEM units, student products/photos, and additional learning opportunities.

Third Grade STEM Certification Evidence Madison Elementary

3rd Grade Additional Evidence

See 3rd Grade's Slideshow of additional evidence of integration of STEM units, student products/photos, and additional learning opportunities.

5th Grade STEM Evidence

5th Grade Additional Evidence

See 5th Grade's Slideshow of additional evidence of integration of STEM units, student products/photos, and additional learning opportunities.