Elementary & Middle School STEAM Program

Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math

At Avail Academy, we've enhanced the traditional STEM framework by incorporating the Arts, transforming it into STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math). STEAM blends scientific/technical skills with the creativity and soft skills that foster collaboration and problem-solving. We nurture critical thinkers equipped to make meaningful contributions to God’s world.

We encourage students to wonder, experiment, and explore God’s intricate creation. In our STEAM Laboratory, students can innovate, explore, and delve into their role as active stewards of God’s Kingdom. Kindergarten through 8th grade students read, write, discuss, ponder, and proactive science.

Units include:

• Earth and Space

• Engineering

• Life Science

• Physical Science

• Process Science

Projects have included:

• Foss Kits: This resource focuses on a student-first approach to teaching and includes discovery and inquiry-based learning opportunities.

• Makerspace: This program provides many opportunities for students to become creators. Cardboard castles, green screen videos, robotics, and coding are just a few examples from our Makerspace program.

• Minnesota Zoo STEM Design Challenge: Fifth-grade students have participated in a state-wide competition to design a model of a renovated animal exhibit using the engineering design process. This project is open to all schools in the state, and Avail students have consistently placed in the Top 10.

• Science Fair: 7th-grade students participate in the national Broadcom Masters Science Fair Competition. They identify a problem, plan, perform, and experiment, create a presentation, share findings with experts, and evaluate and reflect on the project. Our students have earned numerous awards in regional and state competitions.