STEAM at DSA
At DSA students focus on building, understanding, and amassing a set of well-rounded skills beneficial for the college applications and the workforce. STEAM is a learning approach that utilizes science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics as guideposts to critical analysis, communication, argumentation, and collaboration.
At Dayspring students are equipped with the necessary tools to pursue careers in a variety of programs and this exploration starts as early as preschool and kindergarten. Whether a student dreams of becoming a civil engineer, mathematician, attorney, surgeon, or a computer programmer – Dayspring students are provided with the background to fulfill these dreams while allowing students to become familiar with each field. Students learn to think critically, ask questions, and problem solve; valued skill sets in the workforce.
Science
From life science to physical science to AP Chemistry, students learn about our world through hands-on experiences. We pride ourselves on daily lab experiments opening up opportunities for students to apply the material they have learned. No matter the age – prek to senior year – from hatching eggs studying a chicken’s life cycle to creating chemical compounds in the chemistry lab – students are learning through experimentation.
Technology
All DSA students have computer classes beginning in preschool. Students learn keyboard skills and educational programs (Google suite). In addition, students learn computer coding and programming. Whether it is learning how to code an app or program a robot for competition – students are delving into the world of technology with an emphasis on computer science.
Engineering
Dayspring runs nationally recognized engineering programs one of which, Project Lead The Way (PLTW), begins in kindergarten and concludes senior year. “We create an engaging classroom environment unlike any other. PLTW empowers students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges. Through our pathways…students not only learn technical skills, but also learn to solve problems, think critically and creatively, communicate, and collaborate.” (https://www.pltw.org/).
Arts
Theater, art, piano/guitar lessons, music, and even songwriting/sound engineering are some of the ways students embrace the arts at Dayspring. Full-scale theatrical productions in both elementary and upper-school allow students to experience performing, dancing, singing, set construction, costume design, lights/sound engineering, and more. Through integration of songwriting in English, architectural design in civil engineering, or constructing a bridge in middle school science students are able to develop their love for art while applying these skills to a variety of career paths.
Mathematics
Abstract and quantitative reasoning, argumentation, modeling, precision, real-world applications, and other skills are mathematical skills DSA students practice daily. The depth of understanding continues out of the math-specific classroom as students learn to implement these skills in biology, physical science, chemistry, civil engineering, aeronautical engineering, and robotics. Mathematics truly is cross-curricular at Dayspring.