Choose STrEaM!
February 2019
The 2019-20 schools lottery is open and February is "Visit Our Schools" month in ASD! STrEaM Academy provides school tours every Tuesday at 9:30 AM, and an evening tour Friday February 8th at 6:00 PM. For many families, the tours are a part of the decision-making process in choosing a school to attend next year. What is STrEaM Academy and why should you choose us?
Our name includes the "STEM" acronym (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) and important elements of research and the arts. We are a unique charter middle school serving 6th, 7th & 8th grades. Driven by our mission, "Anchorage STrEaM Academy empowers students to be involved learners, critical thinkers and engaged citizens inspired by the natural world." How do we do this?
Curriculum and instruction at STrEaM centers around Project-Based Experiential Learning. This means the standards students must learn, know and do at each grade level are taught through an integrated, hands-on approach. Instead of traditional "sit and get" learning, teachers work together to design projects that incorporate STEM fields along with research and the arts. Projects encompass multiple standards, often involving several subjects.
What is an example of Project-Based Learning? In 6th grade students study renewable and non-renewable energy resources from scientific, social, political and economic perspectives. They simulate mining and oil drilling in labs, engineer wind turbines, focus on the viability of renewable energy resources like wind or hydroelectric in our community, and present their findings to the Mayor of Anchorage for their final assessments. This model engages students by providing choice, allowing them to explore interests, work hands-on, collaborate in teams, research real topics and issues, engage with the community, and present to an audience. Teachers move from the "sage on the stage" to the "guide on the side," becoming facilitators of learning and empowering their students.
Hand-in-hand with Project-Based Learning at ASA is our focus on Experiential Education. We believe in getting kids outdoors and out in the community and environment in which we live. On a daily basis, we build in movement, activities, brain breaks, short recesses outdoors or walks in our local parks. Kids need exercise, activity and fresh air! On a broader scale, we plan at least once per month for a TREK (Teaching Research Education with Kids), a full-day field trip or excursion tied to learning and projects in our community and local environment. Our annual TREKs include trips to Arctic Valley and skiing at Russian Jack Park. Throughout the year guest presenters engage students on topics including STEM fields, wildlife, careers, local government, weather, energy and much more. Through these experiences our students are learning to be the future leaders and stewards of our community and environment.
Now over half way through our third school year, we are eager to meet the students coming to us next and joining our journey. Already, we are designing projects, planning TREKS, coordinating with presenters and organizing activities and events. We have many STEM options like Coding, Rocketry and Robotics, and provide 1 to 1 technology with student Chromebooks. Our facilities at Wayland Baptist include 10 classrooms, a library, new carpeting, and a vastly expanded back yard area for recreation and play.
We are excited to begin YEAR FOUR in 19-20 with new adventures in education and a new core group of incoming students. Explorers wanted!
For more information: Call now (907) 742-9000
Stop by between 8 AM and 3:30 PM at Wayland Baptist University on Muldoon, across from the Totem theatre, or come for school tours each Tuesday in February at 9:30 AM.
Email the principal mokelke_adam@asdk12.org
Email the Admin. Assistant/front office thompson_sandra@asdk12.org
On Twitter @AKSTrEaMAcademy https://twitter.com/AKSTrEaMAcademy
Instagram @Anchorage_Stream_Academy https://www.instagram.com/anchorage_stream_academy/
Instagram @Anchorage_Stream_Academy https://www.instagram.com/anchorage_stream_academy/
