Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this team only for students who plan to be mathematicians, scientists or engineers?
Absolutely not! While we will certainly highlight elements of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics in our coursework, we are using it as a vehicle to develop students' thinking/problem solving skills and to maximize their knowledge base to prepare them for success in challenging high school programs. We see ourselves as much a pre-AP/pre-IB program as we are a STEAM program, but we hit the five letter acronym limit!
2. Can students take Art, Orchestra, Band, etc.?
Yes! Sixth grade students will take PE, Coding Fundamentals, and one elective of their choice. Seventh and eighth grade students will take PE and two elective classes. Students are encouraged to take a technology class as one of their elective choices but it is not required.
3. Are student required to join TSA to be on the STEAM Team?
No. While participation in TSA is encouraged, it is not required. Students have numerous choices in activities these days and we understand that families and students come to us with diverse needs, interests, and situations!
4. Is participation in the Science Fair a requirement?
No. Students will have a choice to participate in Science Fair or another activity that requires long-term planning such as TSA, FCCLA or FBLA. Participation in a long term activities is important in developing long term planning strategies, organization, responsibility and perseverance. These soft skills are essential for success for college and career readiness.
5. Is there a summer assignment?
There is no planned Summer Assignment for STEAM at this time. If this changes, students who have been accepted on the team will be notified toward the end of school year.
6. Is this program only for “gifted” students?
Absolutely not! This program is for any student who likes learning, is willing to work (within reason) and is interested in technology.
Absolutely not! While we will certainly highlight elements of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics in our coursework, we are using it as a vehicle to develop students' thinking/problem solving skills and to maximize their knowledge base to prepare them for success in challenging high school programs. We see ourselves as much a pre-AP/pre-IB program as we are a STEAM program, but we hit the five letter acronym limit!
2. Can students take Art, Orchestra, Band, etc.?
Yes! Sixth grade students will take PE, Coding Fundamentals, and one elective of their choice. Seventh and eighth grade students will take PE and two elective classes. Students are encouraged to take a technology class as one of their elective choices but it is not required.
3. Are student required to join TSA to be on the STEAM Team?
No. While participation in TSA is encouraged, it is not required. Students have numerous choices in activities these days and we understand that families and students come to us with diverse needs, interests, and situations!
4. Is participation in the Science Fair a requirement?
No. Students will have a choice to participate in Science Fair or another activity that requires long-term planning such as TSA, FCCLA or FBLA. Participation in a long term activities is important in developing long term planning strategies, organization, responsibility and perseverance. These soft skills are essential for success for college and career readiness.
5. Is there a summer assignment?
There is no planned Summer Assignment for STEAM at this time. If this changes, students who have been accepted on the team will be notified toward the end of school year.
6. Is this program only for “gifted” students?
Absolutely not! This program is for any student who likes learning, is willing to work (within reason) and is interested in technology.