Manchester Community Schools is pleased to announce that Manchester Elementary, Manchester Intermediate, and Manchester Junior/Senior High School have been named Indiana STEM Certified Schools. These buildings join an elite group of schools across the state who have successfully completed the rigorous process to attain the Certified STEM School designation.
As stated on the IDOE website, “The Indiana Department of Education’s STEM Certified Schools program prioritizes the teaching of science, technology, engineering, and math disciplines – critical to preparing students for 21st Century success. STEM Certified Schools exemplify a highly non-traditional approach to education by employing a great deal of inquiry, project-based learning, community engagement, entrepreneurship, student-centered classrooms, and out-of-school STEM activities.”
MCS embraces the importance of STEM education at all levels. From the time our students enter kindergarten, we refer to them as practicing scientists and engineers. Our teachers provide authentic project and inquiry based learning opportunities, rooted in scientific and engineering processes and skills that spark curiosity and wonder.
We are fortunate to have access to outdoor learning spaces including nature trails and greenhouses; well-equipped science and technology labs; robust extracurricular activities such as Science Olympiad, Robotics, and FFA; and opportunities for STEM career exploration through field trips and internships. We are also blessed to live in a community that encourages and supports STEM education.
“This STEM certification puts an official stamp of approval on what we (students, parents, and myself) already knew: STEM education is important, memorable, foundational, inspirational, and much more. The learning taking place at MES and all of MCS is motivating students to learn more. By being curious, asking good questions, and noticing the world around them, students are laying the framework for all future careers, hobbies, and passions.” ~Joel Eichenauer, Elementary STEM Specialist.
