STEAM SCHOLARS

Program Overview

Windward School’s STEAM Scholars program is for tenth through twelfth grade students with a passionate interest in extended studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math STEAM challenges motivated students to bridge real world applications and academic studies in order to enhance their abilities to succeed in the 21st century. Through an approved course of study, combined with out-of-class experiences, Prep and Collegiate students may pursue their passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Upon completion of the program, students who earn the STEAM Scholars Certificate will have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind to pursue further studies and careers in the STEAM fields. Additionally, successful completion of all the program requirements will lead to distinction as a Windward STEAM Scholar on the Windward transcript.

Formal entry into the program occurs through an application process in the Spring of 9th grade.

Program Goals

Windward School’s STEAM Program strives to inspire joy at the idea of discovery, to create a culture that fosters innovation, and to prepare our students for effective involvement in an increasingly technological society. We engage our students with interdisciplinary courses and experiences that incorporate advanced technology-integrated projects, as well as encourage inquiry, integrity, collaboration, creativity, problem-solving, and critical reasoning. Through their challenging experiences in the program, students will:

- Demonstrate critical thinking, curiosity, adaptability, and initiative in order to be both contributors to and influential in a technological society;

- Exhibit an appreciation for the skills and imagination needed to design, create, and utilize advanced technologies;

- Engage in and explore the interconnectedness of the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics;

- Practice and master the core skills necessary to successfully pursue a higher degree in one of the STEAM disciplines; and

- Develop as leaders and support one another through collaboration and team building.

Requirements

Portfolio:

- Students must maintain a digital portfolio of STEAM work, acquired skills, and reflections.

- This portfolio will be used to demonstrate progress in core competencies and will be regularly monitored by the STEAM Director. It must include reflective artifacts which demonstrate steps towards development and mastery in the STEAM disciplines.

Community:

- Students must attend all Windward STEAM events, and monthly meetings (exceptions granted by STEAM Director on a case by case basis)

- Students must complete a significant, STEAM focused, community service project during the 2nd and 3rd year of the program—all must be proposed and approved prior to undertaking.

- Senior STEAM Scholars must participate in formal mentoring of 8th grade students as a part of their capstone projects.