The Rockford Middle School – Center for Environmental Studies (RMS-CES), hosted a showcase that featured areas of study, partners in learning, community organizations that include student involvement, and musical performances.
The school’s staff, students and volunteers invited the public to come and observe a little of what the STEM program is like, including the indoor/outdoor experience of environmental studies. The great outdoors serves as a classroom throughout the seasons, so the cold and breezy afternoon was nothing out of the ordinary, and several booths were set up outside the school.
The district adopted a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) middle school curriculum in 2011 with an environment focus that incorporates nature into core areas of study with hands on experiments and research that make learning tangible and memorable. While much of the work is completed on campus, the district partners with several outside nature groups and foundations in including the Three Rivers Park District and Deep Portage for an extended experience. The Raptor Center gave a presentation at this event, and Mike Lynch of WCCO showed up for a “starwatch” demonstration complete with an arsenal of telescopic equipment.
The showcase was well attended. In its second full year, the enhanced curriculum is drawing positive critiques from students and parents, as well as a lot of interest.
Additional information regarding RMS-CES, and it STEM curriculum, can be obtained by calling 763-477-5831, or by visiting the district’s web site at rockford.k12.mn.us