CCSD21 to introduce STEM-focused 'talented programming' for 2023-24 school year

Community Consolidated School District 21 is set to roll out a higher tier science, technology, engineering and mathematics-focused "talented programming" activity track for the 2023-24 school year.

The district will start implementing more "exposure" activities to give students a chance to build their skills in the areas of art, coding, engineering and photography by the time they graduate from middle school. Students who show aptitude in certain sections, or express interest in learning more about a given activity, can then proceed forward with a more advanced, in-depth courses.

"We wanted to try and add some layers and some depth to these skill areas, so while all students will be exposed to a foundational activity, we'll have sections set aside for those interested in the more in-depth areas," said Dr. Beatrice Childress, assistant superintendent for equity and learning.

Incoming fifth graders will have the opportunity to explore both 3-D art and coding, learning about coding and developing their skills through opportunities in STEM class. These exposure activities are set to be built into new middle school opportunities to be rolled out for the 2024-25 school year.

Elementary school students will also have the chance to join several district-sponsored clubs in the new school year, including a STEM club, an engineering club and a robotics club. Each of these clubs will give students a chance to develop talents and skills in STEM.

Sixth graders, meanwhile, will take a mini-unit on photography through their art class during the 2023-24 school year, which will be rolled into new middle school opportunities also set to be rolled out for the 2024-25 school year.

Middle schoolers can also join two district-sponsored clubs next year, including the engineering club and the robotics club, which will give them the opportunity to develop talents and skills in STEM.

Come fall, the district will start to form an Advanced Learner Parent group, which would meet once a trimester to discuss topics generated by the members about the needs of these learners. Anyone interested can find more information and apply by visiting the district's website.