Beginning with the 2017-2018 School Year, Mars Area School District is introducing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering Art, Mathematics) as a Special Area class for elementary students (K-6).

Each elementary building has a designated STEAM classroom that is designed to promote teamwork and innovation in a high-tech “maker” or creator space. Students will have access to iPads, robotics, building materials and other resources to encourage curiosity and creativity.

In their STEAM classes, students will learn through a progression of skills that are aligned to the District’s elementary curriculum.

At Mars Area Primary Center, kindergarten students will become empowered thinkers through exploration and collaboration. First-graders will be considered inquisitive learners, observing and constructing through experimentation.

In second grade, Mars Area Elementary School students will act as explorers as they analyze the functions of innovative tools and the tinkering process. Third-graders, as creators, will use digital tools to design multimedia-embedded projects; and, fourth-graders, as designers, will investigate problem-solving methods through research and development.

Mars Area Centennial School fifth-graders will become innovators, using the design process to apply what they have learned by creating. And, sixth-graders, as engineers, will design and produce authentic inventions with immersive media.

Any parents or community members interested in sharing their expertise in a STEAM-related field with students or wishing to make a donation to the District’s STEAM program may call (724) 625-1518, ext. 1524.