The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) program is here to give the 7th graders better creativity, collaboration, and communication skills by solving real world problems.
While STEM gives them great skills like leadership, science teacher Ms. Landry, said it can also create lifelong learning.
“It will instill a love of learning and curiosity about the world. These qualities can lead to a lifelong interest in exploring new ideas and seeking out knowledge.”
Mr. O’Keeffe has also said that it will “expose students to career opportunities in the field of STEM. Additionally, it will give students a chance to experience different areas of STEM, such as computer science and engineering to generate more interest in those programs for high school and college.”
Texas History teacher, Ms. Garcia, stated that “it will most definitely lead to greater leadership skills.”
The STEM program was put together by Mr. O’Keeffe, and the other STEM crew members, Ms. Almeida, Ms. Garcia, Ms. Robinson and Mrs. Landry. They have put in a lot of hard work, and dedication to making this program a success.
Mr. O’Keeffe stated that “I had to apply for a grant, and I received one from Phillips 66 for $20,000 before anything was possible. Once we had the money, I started recruiting students and meeting with parents. The teachers gave up several days of their summer vacation for training to be ready for the school year. We are all still putting in extra time and energy to make sure the program gets off to a great start.”
The STEM program teachers have continued to give the beginning of the WMS STEM program 100% of their time and dedication.
Ms. Landry stated that “teachers who prepare to teach STEM typically undergo specialized training and professional development to effectively instruct students in these subjects. Collaboration with other educators is vital in STEM education. Teachers often work in teams to share ideas, resources, and best practices. Collaboration can also involve partnerships with industry professionals or scientists to bring real-world expertise into the classroom.”
WMS has a reputation for having very ELITE students. The STEM program supports this reputation beyond any belief.
Ms. Landry said that “the alignment of a STEM program with the school’s motto is achieved by demonstrating how the program embodies the school’s core values and mission. Effective communication and integration of STEM principles into the school’s culture and curriculum can reinforce this alignment and help fulfill the school’s overarching goals and aspirations.”
Mr. O’Keeffe said that the entire school is elite! The STEM program goes above and beyond to make sure the job gets done right.
On the back of the STEM t-shirts is the number 212. Mr. O’Keeffe said “the number is to remind the staff and students to put in the extra work. At 211 degrees, water is hot. At 212 degrees, water boils and steam is created. Steam can power a train! One degree makes all the difference.”
Mr. O’Keeffe has high hopes for the future of the STEM program at WMS. All of the teachers involved in STEM hope that it will expand kids’ minds and help them to step out of their comfort zone and try something incredible.
“I am hopeful that the program will gain a lot of interest this year and will grow each year,” Mr. O’Keeffe said. He has always loved science and has been involved with many different STEM programs around the district. Ms. Almeda, Ms. Garcia, Ms. Robinson, Ms. Landry, and Mr. O’Keeffe are super excited and ready to continue growing the STEM program to WMS.
