Notre Dame Elementary School has been recognized as a STEM School through the Ohio Academy of Science by receiving the Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education! Not only is NDES a STEM school this year, NDES was also recognized last year as a 2014 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence.
Highlights to sustaining this outstanding NDES program include strong core math and science programs from preschool through 8th grade that include collaborative and experiential learning, tiered instruction, engagement with manipulatives and state of the art technology.
“Announcing the official recognition as a STEM school coupled with recently receiving the National Blue Ribbon School Award ensured, for me, as a parent that I made the right choice for my children’s academic success. It is not only a joy watching my children grow spiritually and academically but it is exciting to watch Notre Dame raise the bar on excellence and then achieve it!,” stated Marie Szczyglowksi, Owner/President of Cardinal Physical Therapy and NDES parent.
While the foundation for key mathematic and scientific principles are laid out in the core classrooms, students go beyond the basics as they participate in a variety of STEM-related enhancements. The technology program at NDES is integrated into all subject areas. Classroom teachers across the curriculum collaborate with the technology teacher to maximize student engagement and application of technology as they work with iPads, surfaces, laptops and the four 3-D printers recently acquired with the support of the NDES Parent Association
All students in kindergarten through 8th grade participate in a STEM enrichment course that meets weekly. The STEM instructor collaborates with classroom teachers to come up with engaging projects that fulfill curriculum requirements while encouraging students to think creatively and outside the box. In addition, students participate in Challenge and Enrichment programs that emphasize collaboration, problem solving and critical thinking skills that encourage creative solutions to authentic problems.
“Key to being recognized as a STEM School is the multitude of ways that the teachers at NDES facilitate student participation in STEM related activities beyond the classroom,” stated Principal, Barbara Doering.
STEM opportunities include local and regional Science Olympiad and math competitions, regional, local and state Science Fairs, the Destination Imagination Program and the Shearer Potato Chip Perfection Student Contest.
This past summer a student from NDES received the top award for her design, winning a $5,000 savings bond. In addition, two students received honorable mention, along with $600 savings bonds. The high level of student involvement in these activities demonstrates NDES student excitement and engagement in STEM education!