MUSKEGON, Mich. — Bunker Elementary opened the Muskegon Public School District's first of three planned science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) labs.
The new STEAM lab will host over 400 lessons for students that include digital animation, circuitry, robotic coding, use of data sensors and simple machines.
The STEAM curriculum will be available to students in modules as part of the kindergarten through fifth grade experience. Students will attend classes in music, physical education, art and STEAM daily throughout the school year.
“Research shows the best way to increase STEAM learning and interest while creating equity in math and science achievement is through an immersive, project-based, hands-on environment. In 2020, our community voted on their belief in a brighter future for MPS by passing two bonds, making labs like this a possibility,” stated MPS Superintendent Matthew Cortez.
“Launching our Bunker STEAM lab is a huge milestone in transforming MPS into a modern and career-focused K-12 educational leader that will be unparalleled in Michigan."
The district says that the STEAM lab is designed to build students' resilience, encourage teamwork, foster creativity, apply technology and teach problem solving.
“I am excited to watch students flourish in this new environment and to teach this new STEAM curriculum that is integrated with a standards-based math and science curriculum,” said Janell Carr, STEAM teacher at Bunker Elementary. “With an integrated curriculum, students are using critical thinking skills to solve problems while connecting math and science concepts to their learning.”
The district utilized funds from the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund to increase student engagement with the STEAM lab.
A bond funded building remodeling and construction at Bunker Elementary.
The total approximate cost of the STEAM lab was $250,000. This includes its construction, installation as well as staff training, curriculum design and one year of support of the lab.
Two more STEAM labs will be installed at Oak View Elementary and Marquette Elementary schools by Fall of 2024.
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.