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Science & Innovation

Melissa McLain

Melissa McLain

Supervisor K-12 Science & Innovation

K-8 Science & Innovation

Every student possesses curiosity about the world in which they live, making them natural scientists. At Marion P. Thomas Charter School (MPTCS), our Elementary STEM Program is designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and cultivate a love of learning from the earliest grades. Across Sankofa Academy, STEAM Academy, PAC Academy, we provide hands-on, inquiry-driven science and STEM experiences that help our young scholars think, act, and problem-solve like real scientists and engineers.

Key Aspects of Our Elementary STEM Program:

  • Inquiry and Exploration: Our Science and STEM experience encourages students to ask questions, make observations, and develop hypotheses. They learn to think like scientists and engineers as they investigate real-world problems and create innovative solutions through trial and error.
  • Collaboration and Teamwork: Collaboration is a core principle of our program. Students often work in groups or pairs, promoting the development of communication skills, cooperation, effective teamwork, and a sense of community.
  • Early Exposure to STEM Careers: Students learn about different professions and the educational pathways that can lead to exciting careers in STEM. This early exposure helps them envision the diverse possibilities available in the future.

In essence, our Science and STEM programs aim to create an inclusive and stimulating learning environment that nurtures a lifelong love for STEM subjects. Through hands-on experiences, inquiry-driven learning, and real-world connections, we inspire our scholars to become lifelong learners and pursue rewarding careers in STEM fields and promote diversity in these spaces.

Explore Our STEM Courses

Science in Action!

Signature STEM Partnerships

9-12 Science & Innovation

At Marion P. Thomas Charter High School, our goal is to foster our students’ curiosity, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking abilities while igniting a passion for Science and STEM. Key aspects of our High School Science program include:

  • Designing experiments and engineering solutions
  • Asking purposeful questions and developing hypotheses
  • Collecting, analyzing, and interpreting real data
  • Engaging in laboratory investigations tied to real-world issues
  • Communicating findings through presentations, models, and data stories
  • Practicing leadership, cooperation, and peer feedback
  • Learning about careers in biotechnology, engineering, medicine, cybersecurity, chemistry, and environmental science
  • Meeting STEM professionals and gain insight into required education, certifications, and skills