Academy STEAM Programs
Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math
The Academy of Notre Dame is committed to preparing our students for a rapidly evolving global economy that requires the development of the skills necessary to compete with peers from every corner of the world. The Academy's STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) approach is integrated into every classroom setting. STEAM schools are centers of creativity and innovation that provide challenging, student-centered, inquiry-based educational experiences. Unlike a traditional curriculum, STEAM education develops PK-8 students’ creative, analytical, teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills that are essential to success in today’s world.
STEAM courses are taught in a sequential manner and spiral from year to year. Early grades use consumable workbooks and later grades use hard-cover text books. Technology resources are used throughout the program including in depth on-line resources for both students and parents. Courses are taught with an inquiry-based teaching method that offers a student-centered learning community where students work collaboratively together to solve real world problems. Early grades focus on specific math standards that allow our students to develop a broad-based understanding of basic math skills. Later, students are introduced to Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, and Geometry/Advanced Math beginning as early as Grade 6. The Academy Honors program allows qualified students to matriculate in advanced mathematics courses beginning in Grade 5.
Academy science classes utilize Pearson/Prentice Hall Science Explorer small book series that develop broad skills in Earth Science, Life Science, and Physical Science. Students in Grades 7 and 8 are required to complete a capstone science project and compete in our annual spring Science Fair.
Electronics and technology concepts are covered throughout our STEAM curriculum, and students are asked to integrate STEAM concepts in all Academy courses. In grades 4-8, once a week STEAM classes are augmented by once a week Makerspace classes.
The Academy of Notre Dame is committed to providing our students the most comprehensive STEAM courses that prepare our students for success in any college preparatory high school environment.