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STEAM Institute

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In the STEAM Institute, students are encouraged to pursue their passions and work on projects that fascinate them in the areas of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics, fostering creativity in projects that demonstrate mastery of STEAM principles.

The STEAM Institute is designed to provide students with a transformative educational experience that extends beyond traditional lectures and exams.

Beginning with classroom coursework and group projects in 9th grade, students gradually take on more advanced, collaborative opportunities to innovate and create. Through a series of capstone projects and student-driven research and inventions in 11th and 12th grade, STEAM Institute students learn, grow, and discover, gaining proficiency in STEAM fields such as engineering, medicine, and data science and developing skills that will serve them well in any profession.

Coursework

Instruction in the STEAM Institute is designed to enhance problem-solving, grow STEAM knowledge, and help students apply what they learn to practical, hands-on projects.

9th and 10th Grades:

Students participate in a combination of lectures and active learning opportunities. Each grade culminates in a capstone project based on student interests that demonstrates mastery of key concepts and original thinking.

11th and 12th Grades:

Students pursue individual guided research or engineering project on a topic of their choice. Students are encouraged to be productive, self-directed learners, engaged in rigorous, relevant work that demonstrates growth in their selected area of learning while developing resiliency, teamwork, and leadership skills.

Independent Research

Independent research builds student skills in analysis, decision-making, and resilience in the face of challenges.

With guidance through independent meetings and tutorship with mentors and STEAM teachers, students hone skills in time management, organization, and data analysis.

STEAM Institute independent research students create an original design or an improvement or enhancement to an existing product. Research topic selection is student-driven; projects are required to demonstrate understanding of science, math, or engineering principles and creativity is expected and encouraged of all students.

9th Grade

Introduction to STEAM and Engineering, including:

  • Design and SOLIDWORKS 3D
  • Electronics, circuits, and components
  • Coding
  • Capstone project

10th Grade

Biomechanical Engineering and Independent Research Preparation, including:

  • Engineering design process
  • Biomedical engineering
  • Coding and electronics
  • Sustainability and environmental engineering
  • Capstone project

11th and 12th Grades

Independent Research, building skills including:

  • Spreadsheet applications
  • Data analysis
  • Ethical use of artificial intelligence
  • Research progress and presentation
  • Prototype development

Coursework culminates in a final independent research project.