Project-Based Learning takes center stage as A2 STEAM students are ready to dazzle at fall EXPOs

The A2 STEAM Middle School is set to host its first formal EXPO of the season tonight, inviting families and community members to explore student projects across multiple disciplines. The event promises an immersive look into Project-Based Learning (PBL), where students showcase their interdisciplinary research, collaboration, and deep understanding.

Lower Elementary and Upper Elementary will host their EXPOs in December.

The EXPO encourages community members to explore multiple exhibits and support students’ learning journeys with genuine, substantive feedback.

These events are all open to the community, says Nathan Hatt, Lead Teacher & PBL Coordinator. “Come by if you are interested to see how our students present their knowledge, skills and understandings!” he says.

Middle School Event Schedule Nov. 21:

• 5:30 pm: Doors open
  • STEAM Lab Open House
  • 6th Grade Presentations (Gymnasium)
• 6:00 pm: Additional Spaces Open
  • STEAM Lab Open House
  • Downstairs Art Room
  • 8th Grade Fitness Films (IDEA Lab)
  • 7th Grade Presentations (Library)
• 6:30 pm: Final Round of Presentations
  • 8th Grade Presentations (MPR)

A2 STEAM’s stated mission is to: Provide an environment where students, staff, and the community are actively engaged in Project Based Learning through a student-centered approach with real-world applications, fostering students who lead and contribute to the world around them. This mission is facilitated through many routines and structures within PBL units. EXPO is the culmination of this work.

“Our first EXPO was almost exactly ten years ago,” says Hatt. “It was a very new experience, and was an epic labor of love! Since then, the event has changed in many significant ways. We’ve taken feedback from students, families, and teachers, and tinkered with the model to create a sustainable, joyful tradition.”

Sixth grade teachers Jeanie Wilson and Jessica Bell have been at the school since the first EXPO. Check out this part of our documentary from last spring, A Decade of Discovery, to see how EXPO has changed over time from their perspectives—and others.

The Lower Elementary EXPO is Dec. 5 from 5:30-7 p.m. and Elementary EXPO is Dec. 12 from 5:30-7 p.m.