STREAM Education at Saint Brendan Elementary
The STREAM program at Saint Brendan Elementary Catholic School is composed of curriculum centered on the principle of educating students in six specific disciplines — science, technology, religion, engineering, art and mathematics — in an interdisciplinary and applied approach. Rather than teach the six pillars of STREAM as separate and discrete subjects, STREAM education condenses them into a cohesive learning paradigm that aims to solve global issues.
Unlike traditional science and mathematics education, STREAM education provides a blended learning environment that teaches students how the Scientific Method and the Engineering Design Process can be applied to everyday life. It teaches students computational thinking and focuses on the real-world application of problem solving. The seed of STREAM education is planted early at Saint Brendan Elementary and is carefully nourished throughout all grade levels:
La Casita- We build on the natural curiosity of our preschoolers by developing their interest in all pillars of STREAM. Daily routines are used to build on STREAM skills and concepts. By talking, reading, singing, exploring, and playing with their students, teachers promote young children’s natural abilities as scientists and engineers and encourage them to document their observations by drawing, painting, or by recording themselves.
Elementary School— STREAM education regularly infuses core subjects and an awareness of STREAM fields and occupations is developed. This initial step provides standards-based structured inquiry-based and real-world problem-based learning, connecting all six pillars to all subjects. The goal is to pique students' interest in STREAM professions. There is also an emphasis placed on bridging in-school and out-of-school STREAM learning opportunities.
Middle School — At this stage, STREAM is taught as a rigorous and challenging core subject. Student awareness of STREAM fields and occupations is still pursued, as well as the academic requirements of such fields. Student exploration of STREAM related careers continues at this level and paves pathways STREAM fields to be further explored at the high school level. More emphasis is placed on bridging in-school and out-of-school STREAM opportunities.
