The goal is to expand opportunities for Essex students to immerse themselves in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education.

New opportunities for Essex Elementary students in state-of-the-art STEM labs are out there as a result of grants, design work by the Connecticut Science Center, and support from educators and others.

For kindergarten through sixth grade, the lab provides teachers with a dedicated space to integrate STEM practices into existing science curricula focused on next-generation science standards.

Essex Elementary School Principal Jennifer Tusinant said:

Tousignant says: “We hear from parents how much their children are having fun.”

A recent open house was attended by Tushinyan. Brian White, Head of Region 4. Chet Kitchings and Bill Jacaruso, Chairman and President of the Essex Elementary School Foundation. Above all.

Students and families toured the school and laboratories while staff from the Connecticut Science Center performed experiments and provided hands-on activities.

“STEM is very important for our young people,” says Tousignant. “It includes hands-on real-world experience, problem-solving skills, critical thinking skills, and much more to better prepare you for the future. There are more and more careers available in STEM-related fields. There are more, but there are not enough skilled professionals going into those fields.”

Labs are accessible to all grade levels, including co-ed kindergartens in the district.

“We used to teach within a STEM framework using STEM methodologies, but this space opens up endless possibilities for teaching and learning within STEM, which is very exciting for us.” ” says Tousignant.

This lab was the result of grants provided by the Essex Elementary School Foundation and Essex Elementary School.

“The future of education is leaning towards STEM. I took on the project.” “Hopefully, the lab will excite some students and inspire them to potential future careers in computer science, advanced manufacturing, bioengineering, and more.”

Each year, at least 5% of EESF donations are allocated to supplemental enhancement programs and projects proposed by Essex Primary School administrators that are not available through traditional funding through the school system and budget.

First elected state senator Norman Needleman said, “As long-time supporters of the Foundation, I am proud to say that they have continually reinvented themselves and created great new ideas that will benefit every child in our district.” It’s great to see you being able to come up with projects.

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EESF commissioned the Connecticut Science Center to design the lab with modern components and equipment that can be flexibly adapted for classroom use. The lab includes a SMART board, floor-to-ceiling whiteboard, iPad lab with charging station, ceiling retractable cord with power strip, ADA compliant sink and refrigerator. It has easily movable and height-adjustable furniture and a large work area to meet the needs of students’ different activities.

Dreamscapes Marketing & Design, an Essex-based company, created science-based murals that cover two walls. This reflects the history and future of his use of STEM in Essex. It incorporates images of natural and industrial resources found in the community, such as steam locomotives, paddle boats, and the aerospace industry.

Murals are full of Easter eggs and hidden messages for all ages. The Connecticut Science Center provides student and teacher support throughout the school year, including offering student programming in the space and planning support to develop and facilitate activities in STEM labs.

“Early exposure of young students to STEM experiences supports the development of curiosity and interest while building the confidence of successful STEM learners. It is critical to our future success as we move into a world that relies on ,” said Megan Ramer, program director at the Connecticut Science Center.

Tousignant said he appreciates that the space offers students the opportunity to expand their education.

“I am delighted that our school is making great strides in this area. she added. “We are very fortunate to have the EES Foundation fund resources and experiences like this. Without the support of the local community, such a fulfilling experience would not be possible.”