STEM
S.T.E.M.
(Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
The Cornerstone School has made a commitment to STEM Education because of a forward-thinking educational philosophy that addresses several important factors. According to the US Department of Commerce, STEM occupations are growing at twice the rate of non-STEM occupations. STEM workers play a key role in the sustained growth and stability of the US economy. STEM education creates critical thinkers, increases science literacy, and enables the next generation of innovators. It is clear that most jobs in the future will require a basic understanding of math, science, and computer technology. We feel that it is important to equip our students with 21st-century skills to ensure their future success.
The method that The Cornerstone School uses to create a STEM-rich learning environment is multifaceted. We feel that STEM should not be a stand-alone, isolated class experience, rather it should be integrated into every classroom at every level in as many academic disciplines as possible. By exposing students to STEM and giving them opportunities to explore technology-related activities and concepts, we hope they will develop a passion for it and pursue further education in a STEM-related field.
STEM PROGRAMS
Cornerstone uses FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) to inspire young people's interest and participation in science and technology, and to motivate them to pursue education and career opportunities in STEM fields. FIRST Robotics programs for Kindergarten - 8th Grade include: FIRST LEGO League, FIRST LEGO League Junior, and FIRST Technical Challenge.
The LEGO brand, while known as a wonderful educational toy, is also heavily invested in STEM Education. Curriculum, lesson plans, and learning manipulatives are part of the educational mission of LEGO.
Robofest is a festival of competitions and events with autonomous robots that encourages students to have fun while learning principles of physical science, computer science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Students design, construct, and program the robots.
Recognized as the number one STEM curriculum in the United States (over 10,000 schools), Project Lead the Way is implemented in our Kindergarten - 8th Grade classes and the rigorous curriculum emphasizes mechanical engineering, CAD Design, robotics building and programming, and fundamental science skills.
Code.org is an international organization whose mission is to teach computer programming (coding) skills to students of all ages by expanding access to computer science in schools and increasing participation by women and underrepresented minorities.
A nationwide program with an initiative to provide computer science education to girls in an attempt to bridge the gender gap often times found in math and science fields.