This commitment has been brought to life with the Woodhaven-Brownstown School District’s latest investment — Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Labs.
It is a hands-on STEM program designed to equip students with 21st-century skills.
On Sept. 3, 2024, Woodhaven Upper Elementary proudly opened the doors to its new STEM Lab, a state-of-the-art facility that serves as a learning space for students.
The lab represents a significant stride in the district’s ongoing efforts to enhance educational experiences that bridge traditional learning with what educators call future-ready skills.
EXPLORATION AND INNOVATION
The lab is equipped with the latest resources, including new computers, 3D printers, laser engravers, drones, robotic kits, programming software, and digital design tools.
The tools are not only designed to inspire creativity, but also to enable students to gain practical, real-world experience in fields ranging from engineering to digital content creation.
Guided by the expertise of STEM Lab Facilitator teacher, Adrianne Clements, students are encouraged to explore their unique interests while engaging in hands-on projects.
Whether they are delving into the intricacies of electrical systems or mastering animation software, the opportunities are vast, making the lab an inclusive space for all learners.
“Students walk through the door excited to work in partnerships,” Clements said. “A collaborative approach allows for authentic engagement as they work through the process together and own their learning. This learning style fosters creativity and allows the students to have an impact in how and what they learn. It is and will continue to be an exciting journey for us.”
TRANSFORMATIVE LEARNING
The STEM Lab is more than just a room filled with gadgets. It reflects a transformative shift in the district’s approach to education — one that prioritizes personalized, student-centered learning.
The SMART Lab environment is built around Project-Based Learning, where students take ownership of their projects, solve real-world problems, work together in groups and develop critical life skills such as collaboration, communication, and leadership.
The lab’s customized design allows for purposeful collaboration and movement, and fostering a space where students can experiment freely.
From elementary-level explorations to advanced technical projects, the standards-aligned curriculum and LearningHub’s digital platform guides students through a self-directed learning journey.
More than 500 projects are available, ensuring that each student can pursue their passions while building essential skills for college and careers in the evolving job market.
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
The impact of the STEM Lab extends beyond academics. School officials say research shows students who are engaged in hands-on, project-based learning environments like SMART Labs are more focused in class, demonstrate stronger critical thinking skills, and experience fewer behavioral issues.
These experiences also support the development of social-emotional skills, such as resilience and perseverance, which are critical for success in school and life.
The STEM Lab is also part of the district’s broader vision to provide equitable access to STEM education for all students. By offering personalized learning experiences that meet students at their level of interest and ability, the district ensures that every child has the opportunity to succeed.
Students in the SMART Lab have learned to think of practical applications, most recently when a need arose for a new hall pass for the classroom.
“One of my students took it upon himself to design me a new Hall Pass since mine was broken,” Clements said.
The SMART lab is a step toward preparing students for a future driven by technology, creativity, and innovation.
Through this investment, the district strives to empower the next generation of thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders — ensuring that they are ready to take on the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
The SMART Lab is considered a game-changer in the WBSD — and it isn’t just limited to Woodhaven Upper Elementary.
Over the next two years, SMART Labs will be added to other schools across the district.
This summer Bates and Gudith Elementary schools, along with Brownstown Middle School, will receive labs.
Erving, Wegienka, and Yake Elementary schools are scheduled for construction in the summer of 2026.
Each SMART lab will be integrated into the student specials schedule in kindergarten through sixth grade and then be available as an elective at Brownstown Middle School.
This expansion ensures all K-8 students in WBSD have access to high-quality STEM learning opportunities.
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