2015 Innovators

Buder Elementary has developed a film production and digital storytelling program for all K-5 students which bridges the learning gap to the digital media and video production programs offered in the Ritenour High Schools. Outcomes: Increase student learning and engagement through multimedia projects.

Using design thinking, students in grades 7 – 9 will employ empathy, a tenant of the Crossroads mission to guide their work and exploration in a Makerspace.
Outcomes: To inspire students for continued exploration in the STEM fields.

In order to increase the number of young students exposed to STEM, Immanuel Lutheran has created a robotics program for all students in grades 3 – 8 that include opportunities to solve engineering challenges and program robotics as a regular part the science curriculum. The program also extends intensive robotics learning opportunities for teachers. Outcomes: Students will participate in robotics projects and develop knowledge and skills related to STEM content.
Bonus: IL will partner with River Roads Lutheran to bring robotics to underserved students.

Notre Dame High School is rolling out a cross-discipline collaboration between the Math, Visual Arts and Marketing departments. Students will start with advanced mathematical functions and develop them into visual, actual 3D forms using computer-assisted design. The Visual Arts and Marketing Departments will take the forms and use them to teach design, functionality and market research. Outcomes: Students will develop logical thinking and problem solving strategies.

Rockwood School District is launching the Mobile Innovation Center, a converted RV, to bring purposefully designed challenges, which use 3D printers, modeling and design software, robotics and Makerspace equipment to elementary schools within the Rockwood School District. Outcomes: To increase early exposure and access to STEM education.Outcomes: To inspire students for continued exploration in the STEM fields.

The Soulard School is bringing the Total Wellness Project to its K-5 students. The project addresses the need for holistic learning with an integrated curriculum, connecting health and wellness to larger curriculum goals. Students will use individual polar active monitors to track personal fitness, nutrition and sleep patterns. Outcomes: Students will increase activity time and technological literacy.