STEM

Overview

STEM education is an integrated approach to teaching and learning, preparing students for a world we cannot yet imagine. STEM is not a curriculum; it is a framework of education that focuses on intentionally designing and linking learning experiences for students to develop and apply understandings of science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts and processes to solve problems. It often uses inquiry and project-based learning. While we often think of STEM as mostly science and math, or just technology, literacy also plays a critical role in STEM education, helping students to better understand each subject. Students tap into their creative, scientific and technical mind to apply concepts in the four areas of science, technology, engineering and math to identify issues and resolve them.

Science
Science is an integral component of human society. It offers the opportunity for students to learn why and how things work — from the environment to living organisms, to machines and more. Science provides explanations of the mechanics and reasons behind complex systems. In Richfield Public Schools, we embrace scientific thinking. We strive to create young scientists who are curious and embrace a deep understanding of natural and man-made phenomena and their effects on our world. We believe that the future is in the hands of our students, and we want them fully prepared to voyage into the unknown.

Technology
Technology is the collection of tools, systems, and processes that people use to achieve certain goals or solve problems. Technology includes all kinds of tools that are designed to help us do things more efficiently. It is continually evolving and changing as people come up with new ideas and inventions.

Engineering
Engineering is all about problem solving. Engineering involves the application of scientific and mathematical principles to design solutions for practical problems and real-world challenges. Engineering is a driving force behind innovation and technological advancement.

Arts
By integrating the arts into STEM subjects (starting in sixth grade), students not only gain technical and analytical skills but also develop creativity, imagination, and the ability to approach problems with a holistic perspective. This multidisciplinary approach prepares students for diverse career paths and fosters a lifelong appreciation for the arts and sciences.

Math
Math is everywhere in our lives: from perfectly geometric plants to patterns in the skies, the seasons and our waters. We are dedicated to building strong math identities in our students, helping them to deeply understand mathematical concepts and the why behind them, not just the procedures. Strong math education provides students with vital lifelong skills, including problem-solving, analytical and spatial skills.

We know that learning math is good for our students’ brains. Research shows that strong math students access different parts of their brains while engaging in mathematical activities. Math education provides students with the opportunity to look for problems and design solutions, and a strong math education will prepare students for jobs that haven’t even been created yet.

Benefits of STEM Education

Critical Thinking Skills: STEM education emphasizes critical thinking skills, encouraging students to analyze and solve complex problems logically.
Innovation and Creativity: STEM education fosters creativity and innovation by encouraging students to think outside the box and explore new ideas and solutions.
Career Opportunities: STEM fields offer a wide range of career opportunities in various industries, including technology, engineering, medicine, and science, providing students with diverse and rewarding career paths.
Real-World Applications: STEM education focuses on practical, real-world applications of knowledge, helping students see the relevance of what they learn in the classroom to everyday life and the workforce.
Problem-Solving Skills: STEM education emphasizes problem-solving skills, helping students develop the ability to identify issues, analyze data and generate effective solutions.
Mathematical Proficiency: STEM fields often require a strong foundation in mathematics, and STEM education helps students develop mathematical proficiency, a skill applicable in many aspects of life.

Elementary School

STEM in all of our elementary schools

Early Exposure: Early exposure to STEM activities can spark an interest in pursuing STEM-related careers, preparing students for the demands of an increasingly technology-driven workforce.
Foundation for Learning: STEM education at the elementary level establishes a strong foundation for future academic and professional growth, fostering a natural curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.
Hands-On Learning: Through hands-on projects and experiments, students engage with STEM concepts, developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for lifelong learning.

Richfield STEM Elementary

If your PreK-5 child has a particular love for science, technology, engineering or math, you may want to consider Richfield STEM Elementary. At R-STEM, curriculum is carefully designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging education that focuses on the core principles of STEM. With a hands-on learning approach, students have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in practical and exciting ways through experiments and projects. They also have special community partnerships that provide students with a glimpse into real-world STEM applications. R-STEM is committed to inspiring a passion for these essential disciplines, laying the foundation for future success in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Middle School

STEAM at Richfield Middle School

Preparation for Advanced Learning: STEM education in middle school serves as a crucial preparation for more advanced academic challenges, helping students develop the habits of mind needed for complex subjects and future studies.
Applied Problem-Solving: Middle school students benefit from STEAM's emphasis on creative problem-solving, honing their ability to analyze and address real-world challenges through hands-on projects and experiments.
Career Exploration: STEAM education at this stage exposes students to a variety of STEAM fields, aiding in career exploration and helping them make informed decisions about their personal, academic and professional paths.
Critical Thinking Development: Middle school students engaging in STEAM activities further develop critical thinking skills, enabling them to approach problems with analytical reasoning and creativity.
What classes do students take? Students in grades 6-8 have an opportunity to take STEAM at RMS, which include Arts-integrated units in science, technology, engineering and math. Subjects like robotics, coding and 3D printing are part of the course offering.
Why is STEAM helpful for RMS students? Everything taught in STEAM at RMS is taught in brain science and learning how to be in a brain state to be creative, problem solve and invent. The work is also balanced between collaborative working and individual approaches.
How does STEAM help students understand other subjects? The main goal of STEAM at RMS is to show how all subjects are interconnected and how strong habits of mind and critical thinking apply to everything in life.

High School

STEM at Richfield High School

Preparation for Higher Education: STEM education in high school equips students with the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for success in higher education, especially in STEM-related fields.
Advanced Problem-Solving: STEM education at the high school level challenges students with more advanced problem-solving tasks, fostering a deeper understanding of complex scientific, technological, engineering, and mathematical concepts.
Specialization Opportunities: High school STEM programs offer opportunities for students to delve into specific STEM disciplines, allowing them to explore potential areas of specialization and better align their academic and career interests.
Preparation for Global Challenges: High school STEM education prepares students to tackle global challenges by instilling a sense of responsibility and the skills needed to contribute to solutions in areas such as sustainability, healthcare, and technology.
What classes are available at RHS in STEM? From introductory courses in Business and Marketing and Personal Finance, to more advanced coursework such as Python coding or Advanced Graphic and Web Design, students have multiple opportunities to take classes that explore the different aspects of STEM education throughout their high school career. This can culminate in Advanced Placement and/or College in the Schools courses that can earn college credit and applied skills in STEM. Another unique opportunity is through our partnership with Access Point, a nonprofit organization committed to giving students a direct pathway to a career in computer science and coding, through providing students with mentorship, free tuition and even the opportunity to earn a degree while attending RHS.
Extracurricular opportunities/clubs? One extracurricular activity is the Green Team, a student club that focuses on environmental initiatives at RHS. This is often an entry point for students to explore STEM skills in action. Students can also participate in the RHS magazine, Mindsong, which allows students to create and publish various forms of art, animation and creative videos for a relevant audience.

STEM in Richfield Public Schools

Tell Us Your Story

Did science, technology, engineering or math at RPS make a difference in your life? Are you an RHS alum currently studying or working in a STEM field? We want to hear about it!

Share Your STEM Story With Us

Find it fast

Main Navigation - Desktop

Main Navigation - Mobile

Landing Nav