The community is invited to attend the dedication ceremony for the Merced City School District STEAM Center on Wednesday, October 25 at 10:30 a.m. at 2900 Green Street.
The STEAM Center is a cutting edge facility where TK-8th grade students from throughout the district have an opportunity to experience 21st century, hands-on learning in the subjects of science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. It also allows groups of teachers to work together and receive support and training so they can continue to expand their own horizons and bring that knowledge back to our 18 school sites. Local scientists and engineers are also invited to speak to the students to show them the exciting career opportunities connected to STEAM.
The 5460 square foot center is located next to Ada Givens Elementary. It includes a lab classroom and two “flex” classrooms, along with a lobby/breakout space and a large outdoor amphitheater. The entire design allows for engaging, interactive lessons that can be tailored to various age groups and class sizes.
This facility is one exciting piece of the district’s comprehensive STEAM program. The goal of the program is to prepare students for bright futures in high demand fields through critical thinking and experiential learning. It is supported by classroom teachers as well as several teacher librarians and teachers on special assignment, known as TSA’s. Students are provided STEAM learning opportunities throughout the school year as part of their daily coursework and through extended day opportunities after school. They have the chance to perform a play, learn a new instrument, compose music, build and program robots, create art galleries, work with 3D printers, grow plants, build electric circuits, and much more. They also enjoy educational excursions to places such as Yosemite National Park, Farm 2U, and local arts programs.
The MCSD STEAM program received the prestigious Golden Bell Award from the California School Boards Association in 2016, and students began using the new STEAM Center in August of 2017.
