Attica Elementary Launches Innovative STEAM Class to Foster Love for Learning in Local Students

Attica Elementary School has started a new weekly class to boost creative thinking and encourage teamwork among students. This class, part of the STEAM program, was launched a few months ago. The STEAM program, focusing on science, technology, engineering, agriculture, and math, was made possible by a $2.8 million School Climate Grant from the U.S. Department of Education in 2019. This grant initially funded an after-school STEM club, which paved the way for the current STEAM class.

The STEAM class was proposed by Superintendent Dr. Kiel Illg and interim elementary school principal Sherry Bennett. Bennett is a strong advocate for STEAM, citing its potential to stimulate innovative thinking, curiosity, and communication in elementary students. Illg shares this view, stressing the role of STEAM education in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. He thinks that incorporating these skills into elementary education can foster a love for learning from a young age.

The STEAM class was developed by school administrators and the curriculum director, Matt Stroud. The curriculum was designed based on their experience with the after-school STEM club. The class includes six units: NASA and space, engineering, agriculture, Lego challenges, coding and robotics, and science. The lessons are adapted to the grade level, with older students tackling more complex concepts.

The school year began with kindergarteners learning about science. They were taught how to make observations, encouraging them to explore their environment. They used handheld digital microscopes on a nature scavenger hunt, observing leaves and sparking their curiosity.

Meanwhile, first graders were studying the solar system. The STEAM class at Attica Elementary School demonstrates the school's dedication to promoting a love for learning and exploration. This proactive approach prepares students for the future by teaching them essential skills in science, technology, engineering, agriculture, and math.

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