My small school is set in a suburban community near military housing. Even though my school is within a large metropolitan city, it feels like a small community and sheltered, an "island in the hills." Within those hills, we have a variety of ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds, as well as several families that have moved here from other countries. Many of our students are grappling with parents being deployed.
My students are exuberant and creative, and I am constantly challenged to investigate new opportunities for them to test the waters in STEM/STEAM learning, and tailor the activities for all grade levels, transitional kindergarten through grade five!
Our STEAM Lab and Makerspace has gone through many changes over the years, and we are keeping in step with new thinking and methodology by focusing on the three-dimensional design of the Next Generation Science Standards. We also make a concerted effort to incorporate exposures to technology, engineering, art, and mathematical applications, and make it relevant to their world and interests. The curriculum is student-driven, and ever-morphing to meet their needs.
As the TK-5th STEAM Lab teacher, I feel I have the best job ever!
My Project
Running a STEAM classroom for over 400 kids tends to use up a lot supplies, create (good) messes, and sometimes requires a few tools!
The STEAM Lab takes Ms Frizzle's quote seriously - "take chances, make mistakes, and get messy!" For this project, we will be taking a chance on creating something artistic with air-dry clay.
We know that we will make some mistakes along the way, and it will definitely get messy!
In addition to the clay, we also need some sheet protectors, a sweeper, a battery charger, a set of tools for both building and taking apart, and some paint.
More than a third of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Allard's STEAM Lab and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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