BP STEM Academy has earned recognition for its implementation of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) curriculum for third through fifth graders as a Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished Launch. PLTW, a nonprofit organization that develops STEM curriculum for elementary, middle, and high schools nationwide. It celebrates districts and schools committed to unlocking student potential through its programs, aiming to empower students with in-demand skills in computer science, engineering, and biomedical science.
BP STEM Academy's dedication to enhancing student access, engagement, and achievement in PLTW programs has earned it honors. This distinction places the BP STEM Academy among 24 schools in California and 535 schools nationwide recognized for their elementary STEM implementation.
“Congratulations to our staff including our teachers Michele Ellis, Jennifer Winn, Veronica Sanchez, and Veronica Montano for their dedication and devotion to implementing the PLTW curriculum with integrity and fidelity,” Mike Rust, Principal of BP STEM Academy said.
This year's classroom highlights include an array of student projects that ignite diverse talents and interests. In the third grade, students delved into sustainability projects reflecting on environmental change. Fourth-grade students immersed themselves into medical sciences by creating group podcasts to research medical concussions. Meanwhile, fifth-grade students embraced creative editing skills by producing book trailer videos, tapping into computer science. In addition, fifth-graders also participated in the highly anticipated robotics program where they work together to craft a robot using core STEM principles. Students take on a role including: engineer, assistant engineer, or logistics manager, and they collaborate on strategies to create the most effective team robot. Together, they carefully select parts and pieces to assemble the robot and carry out a plan for operation.
These projects are just a few examples of their programs that not only align with the PLTW curriculum, but also keep students thoroughly engaged and excited to learn in a collaborative environment.
PHOTOS
2024_BPSTEM1: Third-grade students pose for a photo while working on their computers.
2024_BPSTEM2: A fifth-grade student poses with his group’s robot.
2024_BPSTEM3: Fifth-grade students pose for a photo while working on an assignment.
2024_BPSTEM4: Ms. Winn’s fourth-grade class watches their class’ podcast projects centered on concussion exploration.
2024_BPSTEM5: Fourth-grade students snap a photo with their robot.