"[Science] is more than a school subject, or the periodic table, or the properties of waves. It is an approach to the world, a critical way to understand and explore and engage with the world, and then have the capacity to change that world..."

-President Barack Obama, March 23, 2015

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and math. Teachers and administrators at the Franklin Lakes School District strongly support the continued integration of STEM teaching and learning to support students as life-long learners and 21st century citizens. STEM teaching supports ongoing development of creativity by encouraging students to apply 21st Century Skills such as collaboration, problem solving, critical thinking, creativity and innovation. Students in primary grades have the strongest affinity for divergent thinking. The integration of design challenges and science projects early on and throughout schooling can hone creativity in students. We do so by employing engineering and scientific practices. These are described by the Next Generation Science Standards below.

The 8 Science and Engineering Practices

Asking Questions and Defining Problems

Developing and Using Models

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

Engaging in Argument from Evidence

Obtaining, Evaluating and Communicating Information

January 2017 NSTA Reports article, Engaging Students in the STEM Lab, includes commentary from FAMS Stem Lab teacher, Ms. Eileen Antonison.