S.T.E.A.M!

Over the course of the past fifteen years, I’ve had the pleasure of teaching Pre-K and gaining insightful viewpoints directly from children. I believe all children are individuals who bring a unique combination of needs and abilities to the classroom. Three years ago, I was lucky enough to become a part of the District 20 Pre-K Center community. A place “Where Great Beginnings Never End!” Previously as a classroom teacher, where I loved nurturing and instructing little minds. However, when I was offered the opportunity to become a S.T.E.A.M. teacher, the choice was simple. The chance to broaden the childrens’ perspectives and to aid in leading the way in the advancement of their education is exactly why I became a teacher.

The S.T.E.A.M. program offers children the chance to undergo a collaborative educational approach to learning Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics. Student inquiry, communication, and critical thinking guide student learning. This program exposes the children to an early education in the simple foundations of the engineering design process.

As the S.T.E.A.M. teacher in the District 20 Pre-K center at Z013, I encourage my students to become independent learners while using a hands-on approach to observing, exploring, creating and problem solving. During different activities, I see the enthusiasm in their eyes as their curiosity grows. They immediately become motivated and engage in making their creations work. Whether it’s a gate for pumpkins, a ramp for a vehicle, or a wave in a bottle, they use their imaginations to become engineers.

As a facilitator of S.T.E.A.M., I create opportunities for learning to promote the ultimate goal of student success. It is my desire to inspire all students to achieve their fullest potential. Through this exciting program, I help develop early learning skills using explorations and challenges for my students. Our safe classroom space; promotes taking risks, allowing for respectful agreements and disagreements, and encourages critical thinking and productive problem solving. Together, I can’t wait to see what the future holds!

Michele J. Mulé - S.T.E.A.M. Teacher Z013