We have started to purposely include self-contained special education students in various STEM challenges, where we had not done so in previous years. The engineering teacher plans special challenges for them based on literature they read, such as Pete the Cat: Trick or Pete. Based on the story, each child had to make something scary. Materials, such as Keva® blocks, have also been purchased for them so they can create and design in their classrooms. We plan to continue to grow these opportunities and increase their involvement in STEM learning.
Strengths
At BES, we have evolved into a learning environment where we provide STEM opportunities to all students across all grade levels. Our strength is creatively engaging all students through STEM. We have conscientiously implemented STEM throughout the entire school community through inclusive strategies such as our related arts classes, monthly challenges, and our One School, One Book initiative.
Sustainability
A substantial portion of our Title 1 budget is dedicated to buying supplies and providing resources to teachers for STEM. Members of the STEM leadership team have provided support by teaching model lessons, offering to team teach, and team planning with classroom teachers. The STEM leadership team also works to plan staff development to help teachers feel more adept at implementing STEM and integrating additional content areas such as social studies, ELA, and special areas. During professional development, new strategies are shared to enrich the STEM practices such as adding budgets as a constraint.
Challenges
One of our biggest challenges is that many of our students come from an impoverished background and lack personal experiences. STEM is a means in which we can attempt to even out the playing field. Another challenge we face is our diverse population. We have a wide spectrum of abilities. We have a magnet program for high ability, and we house severe and profound special education students for the district. Meeting the needs of all is challenging but it is a worthwhile goal.
Continuous Improvement
Though we have made great progress, an area for improvement is to find even more opportunities for special education and PreK students to be included in STEM learning. In our severe and profound classrooms, the opportunity to feel special and valued is provided through participation in simple STEM activities. Being given a chance to interact with others and touch different materials is monumental. Our PreK students may lack certain skills but they also have wide imaginations and curiosity. We need to continue to ensure that these natural instincts are nurtured through problem solving.