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Academics

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How many times as a student did you ask yourself - when am I ever going to need to know this? Enter a STEAM education: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math. At Red Apple STEAM School, these disciplines are combined with hands-on, project-based learning so students can solve problems in real-world contexts. In essence, Red Apple students are being taught the process of being scientists, mathematicians, engineers, artists and technological entrepreneurs. They're learning skills like collaboration, creativity, critical thinking and problem solving all of which they need to be successful. One of the coolest things about this type of education - since every student thinks differently and uniquely about the problems they are presented with, students often develop several unique solutions to the same challenge. 

Why STEAM? 

In addition to students learning how to solve problems in real-world contexts, a STEAM education can lead to lucrative and meaningful careers after high school. Consider these stats: 

  • According to the U.S. Dept. of Labor Statistics, the median wage for STEM careers is more than $50,000 higher than the median wage for non-STEM careers. 
  • According to the U.S. Dept. of Labor Statistics, STEM careers are growing at twice the rate of non-STEM careers.
  • The U.S. Dept of Labor Statistics reports that in the next 20 years, 80% of jobs will require a technical skill. STEM employees are the future. They are in charge of building communities and moving the nation forward. 

Why Red Apple? 

The school's lessons and instructional efforts are centered around STEAM. Many projects, interactive learning opportunities and school-wide events are held throughout the school year. 

PLTW Launch

The Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Launch program is a school-wide program that lets students become problem solvers, use structured approaches and employ critical thinking. Students apply Science and Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) knowledge, skills and habits of mind. PLTW Launch is designed to offer maximum flexibility and work in a variety of settings and scenarios.  

Cooperative Learning

Cooperative learning is a learning approach used frequently at our school. It requires interaction between students and the teacher. This approach builds creativity and the high-level thinking demanded in middle school, high school and beyond. Additionally, the approach focuses on positive interdependence, simultaneous interaction, individual and group responsibility and teamwork skills.

Community Opportunities: Options

Every other month, students have an opportunity to participate in Red Apple's award-winning Options program. The Options program brings in surrounding businesses and corporations to share their expertise as it aligns with the school's STEAM focus. Students are allowed to sign up for a session of interest and learn new and exciting information about the specific option offered by the community expert.

STEAM Fair

Red Apple hosts an annual STEAM Fair. During the fair, projects line the tables of our gymnasium and hallways. Students build these projects using the Scientific Method and present them at the fair. Students in grades 3-5 are required to participate as part of their science grade. Kindergarten through Grade 2 students are encouraged to participate in the science fair.

During the fair, there is an area where families can do STEAM activities together as a family.  This is a time for families to come together and see all the hard work the students have put in and learn together.