The biggest challenge that our STEM/Science program faced this past year was ensuring elementary students, both virtual and face-to-face, were able to engage in learning science through hands-on experiences. Additionally, we had several teachers who were teaching science for the first time. The STEM team’s solution was to create a Virtual STEM Laboratory, which housed instructional videos and enrichment activities. To accompany each unit, we provided all students with a science journal and materials for the experiments. Units also contained a student assessment, enabling teachers and students to check their understanding of concepts. Our 5th grade science benchmark scores were four points higher than last year! An unexpected surprise has been the amount of positive feedback we have received from teachers. Teachers report the instructional videos have helped them to understand the science content, and they have asked us to continue with the Virtual STEM Lab next year.

<strong>Contact: </strong>

Libbey Kitten, STEM / Science Specialist

<a href="mailto:libbey.kitten@powhatan.k12.va.us">libbey.kitten@powhatan.k12.va.us</a>

804-598-5700