What is STEAM like at New River Elementary?
STEAM means Science Enginerring, Technology, Art, and Mathematics! At New River Elementary School, we are constantly focusing on our school’s key priorities, centered around a yearly focus, connecting it all to the Deer Valley District Strategic Plan, and goal setting within each classroom. It is those actionable steps, collaboration, and focus that will support the pathway to success. We believe these are ALL of our students and strive to develop the whole child!
A STEAM-focus prepares students to think critically as they collaborate with their colleagues on projects that are integrated with Science, Technology, Engineering and/or Mathematics. Our vision is to prepare our students to become the innovators, educators, researchers and leaders that can solve the most pressing challenges facing our world, both today and tomorrow. It is our desire as educators to focus on 5 key STEAM strategies for authentic learning experiences. Those 5 key strategies identified are: problem solving, exploration and aligning to the real-world, evidence to support discussion, reflection, and taking risks and/or perseverance.
From Kindergarten to Sixth grade, we recognize the importance of letting students know the intended learning outcomes, how collectively they will work towards that desired outcome, and their responsibility as a learner. STEAM is integrated into many subject areas and monthly projects occur. In turn, this effects all students and through reflection on their work it empowers them to take even more ownership. This ownership will contribute to self-confidence and the love of learning.
New River is gearing students up for success in STEAM!
In an ever-changing, increasingly complex world, it's more important than ever that our nation's youth are prepared to bring knowledge and skills to solve problems, make sense of information, and know how to gather and evaluate evidence to make decisions.
These are the kinds of skills that students develop in science, technology, engineering, and math, including computer science—disciplines collectively known as STEAM/CS. If we want a nation where our future leaders, neighbors, and workers can understand and solve some of the complex challenges of today and tomorrow, and to meet the demands of the dynamic and evolving workforce, building students' skills, content knowledge, and literacy in STEAM fields is essential. We must also make sure that, no matter where children live, they have access to quality learning environments. A child's zip code should not determine their STEAM literacy and educational options.
At New River, our students participate in STEAM activities throughout the school year. Each month the STEAM focus shifts so that students can develop skills in science, technology, engineering, and math.