Stanley Community Schools

Stanley elementary has a new addition to its activities available to students. The first STEM club at the elementary school was formed by Mrs. Jennifer Neset and Mrs. Jennifer Tronset. Through the support of principal Ms. Erica Klabunde, a STEM classroom was developed where the learning and fun could begin. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The STEM club follows the model of imagine, plan, create, improve, and ask. STEM is beneficial to students at the elementary school because it encourages experimentation, teamwork, technology use, adaptation, and resilience. The club's goal is to inspire a love of learning and experimentation. Students will learn that there is always room for improvement if they keep practicing. At the club meeting students are given a specific task to complete. The first meeting focused on paper airplanes. The students developed one paper airplane using only tape and paper and then developed a second airplane using tape, paper, staples, and paper clips. The student's goal was to create the airplane that could fly the furthest. Students are encouraged to create a plan and then implement it. As well as go back to the drawing board to improve their original vision. Students are encouraged to collaborate with each other as well as use iPad’s to research ideas. Students were able to create a group project or to improve their own personal work through peer collaboration. The STEM club promotes an informal and relaxed environment where students are comfortable moving around the room while working. The club gives students the opportunity to work on projects from 8:00am to 8:30am one Thursday a month. Students are split into all boy and all girl groups. There are 3rd and 4th grade girls' group, a separate boy's group as well as separate 5th and 6th grade boys' and girls' groups. The club currently isn’t funded, however Neset and Tronset are hoping that they are able to apply for and receive grants for more supplies in the upcoming year.