The STEM Lab at Saint Timothy Catholic School in Chantilly has become a hub for hands-on learning. On any given day, students can be seen building model rockets, designing objects to 3D print, coding robots in a competition league, exploring a virtual world with Oculus goggles, developing their spatial awareness with Tangrams and Magnatiles, or even building escape vehicles for mischievous Christmas elves.
With fundraising support from the Parent-Teacher Organization, Saint Timothy redesigned the STEM program over the summer of 2021, doubling the size of the learning environment and purchasing flexible furniture allowed for enhanced collaboration.
High-top makerspace stations serve as blank slates for designing and engineering. Worktables equipped with screens for student presentations and group projects line the room. Colorful rugs and lower cushioned seating provide a comfy space for the youngest learners.
Building materials of every kind are available, along with the latest STEM technology. A wind tunnel, light table, magnet gear board and nine 3D printers are some of the stations frequented by students of all ages.
The lab is named for former pastor, Father Gerald Weymes.
Two STEM teachers, Ashley Fernandes and Jules de Pano, guide the curriculum beyond computers and word processing to incorporate science, technology, engineering and math into student learning experiences. Kindergarteners through eighth grade students explore the STEM Lab each week. Fifth through eighth grade students are offered an expanded variety of elective courses including 3D printing, drone programing, coding, C02 Car Racing and e-textiles.
“We teach our students how to code and program, how to design, build, and test, but we also work to instill a confidence in problem solving and persevering when it comes to their activities,” said Fernandes.
“When a student says, ‘I need help,’ our first response isn’t to provide a solution, but rather to ask, ‘Can you show me what you have tried so far?’ We embrace our challenges and turn them into learning opportunities,” she said. “We encourage collaboration and innovation while still enforcing and teaching the necessary skills for surviving in a digital world.”
Fernandes said students have the opportunity to utilize their technology and explore STEM fields in a unique way.
“Our STEM Lab has become a place of wonder and awe,” Fernandes said, “and we hope it will inspire our future scientists, engineers, and mathematicians to change the world.”
