clock icon January 30, 2024 user icon Kitty Taylor

10 STEM Education Trends to Watch in 2024

The current state of education is a regular topic of news and conversation across the nation. In 2024, the subjects of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) will continue to be foundational to the latest developments in education and essential to many of the most in-demand career pathways.

clock icon January 22, 2024 user icon Kitty Taylor

12 Interactive Middle School STEM Activities & Challenges

The middle school years are a crucial time for students to develop their academic skills in all subjects, including the STEM subjects of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. For students to fully develop a strong STEM identity, they need to participate in hands-on activities and projects that help them comprehensively understand key concepts.

clock icon November 17, 2023 user icon Jordani Sarreal

7 Elementary STEM Activities for Fall

Fall into STEM with these exciting STEM activities for kindergarten to 5th-grade classrooms.

clock icon October 13, 2023 user icon Jordani Sarreal

Understanding NGSS Standards for Elementary and Middle School

A complete guide to NGSS with everything you need to know about the Next Generation Science Standards.

The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) have transformed STEM education across the U.S. In this article, we’ll answer the most common questions about NGSS and explore what the Next Generation Science Standards are, their purpose and benefits, and how to find STEM curriculum for elementary and middle school that aligns with NGSS practices. 

Whether you are a teacher, administrator, parent, or community member, this comprehensive guide will help you understand the impact of NGSS and how to introduce these standards to your school or district.

clock icon August 24, 2023 user icon Jordani Sarreal

Fun Back-to-School STEM Projects for Middle School Classes

It’s that time of year again when students are readjusting to classroom life after a summer without semesters, report cards, or passing periods. For middle school students, the “summer slide” can distract them from engaging in classroom activities and discussions or losing interest in school subjects they may have thoroughly enjoyed before.

clock icon August 11, 2023 user icon Jordani Sarreal

Cultivating STEM Identity in Elementary School Students

The fields of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are at the forefront of today’s modern innovations and inventions, but without a positive STEM identity in early education, students may end up avoiding STEM subjects for the remainder of their academic careers.

clock icon July 28, 2023 user icon Jordani Sarreal

10 STEM Education Myths, Busted

Looking at the expansive growth of STEM education in the last ten years, you might be surprised to learn that so many antiquated myths around STEM education still prevail.

clock icon May 26, 2023 user icon Kitty Taylor

5 Fun Summer STEM Activities for Second Graders

Second grade is an exciting time for students learning STEM, as they begin to build on concepts established in previous years to have a more comprehensive view of the subjects. The summer breaks before and after second grade are therefore crucial times for students to continue to engage with STEM through hands-on activities, exploration, reading, and more.

clock icon May 15, 2023 user icon Kitty Taylor

Incorporating STEM Activities into the Summer

Summer can be the most exciting time of year for students, full of sunshine and free time, away from the stresses of school. While traditional thinking may expect students to disengage with academics during the summer, this time of year can actually offer a great opportunity to continue STEM learning and instill a passion for STEM in students of all grade levels.

clock icon February 28, 2023 user icon Jordani Sarreal

Fun Spring STEM Science Projects for 1st Graders

Spring is just around the corner, which makes it the perfect time to explore fun new science projects with your first grade class! Here’s a list of engaging STEM activities to try this spring. As winter thaws, spring blossoms with new ways to explore the natural wonders outside the classroom.

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Go beyond the buzzword with Kid Spark.

At Kid Spark Education, STEM isn't a buzzword: it's a powerful way to nurture students' natural curiosity; build confidence and skills in science, technology, engineering, and math; and foster abilities in collaboration, problem-solving, and communication. You, their teachers, are our most important partner in achieving our mission of preparing all children for a lifetime of learning about science and technology. The Kid Spark Blog is written by educators, for educators to be a resource in your toolbox so you can feel confident and capable in teaching STEM to your elementary students. 

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