Our award-winning STEM program is designed to engage students in a relevant and exciting curriculum that breaks down the walls between science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The topics and content are presented through a project-based and hands-on approach with a purposeful sequence of lessons and skill development. Students are encouraged to take risks, persevere, adapt, create, and innovate in each class.
WES received the Strategic Ed Tech (SET) Gold Certification in recognition for our work in educational technology and innovation through SET’s Framework for K-12 Edtech and Innovation.
Students participate in three STEM program units taught by our Science, Technology, and Innovation Teachers throughout the year. The faculty coordinates and collaborates to provide a robust learning environment that reinforces STEM concepts across all of the rotations.
Science-Focused Unit
Utilizing the brand new 2019 Smithsonian Science for the Classroom (SSftC) Science Curriculum, students on a variety of modules. The curriculum is intentionally developed to give students the opportunity to find the purpose of what they are learning and how they can apply that knowledge and skills to make a difference in the world. The SSftC curriculum meets the NGSS standards.
Topics
Classroom Environment: Students gather for class in the Elementary science lab.
Innovation-Focus Unit
This section of the rotation takes an interdisciplinary approach to STEM with a focus towards entrepreneurship and innovation. The curriculum includes selections from:
Topics
Through this rotation, students will explore various STEM topics and experience the power and importance of STEM, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation while having fun!
Study Trips In & Around Washington, D.C.
Classroom Environment: Students explore and learn through projects in the innovation room and from expert guest speakers and through attending study trips to many Washington, DC, area institutions and venues.
Technology-Focused Unit
This section of the rotation focuses on developing students’ digital skills which will serve them through their time in school and beyond and learn the responsible use of technology. The curriculum includes:
Topics
Classroom Environment: Students meet in the technology lab for class.