NextWave STEM Program Reviews & Case Studies

We reciprocate the excitement our school partners, educators, students and parents enjoy when working in STEM and with emerging technologies.

 
“NextWave STEM makes teaching STEM super simple.”
— CPS Teacher
 
“NextWave STEM has all things STEM in one platform or a complete STEM solution.”
— LAUSD School Principal

NY Academy Charter's STEM Transformation

Academy Charter School in New York partnered with NextWave STEM to revolutionize its STEM education across three locations. Serving 2,100 families, the school aimed to boost its already impressive 96% graduation rate by enhancing STEM offerings. They faced challenges with a complex curriculum, insufficient teacher training, and low student engagement. NextWave STEM provided innovative solutions that simplified the curriculum, trained teachers, and significantly increased student interest and learning outcomes, positioning Academy Charter at the forefront of modern education.

“NextWaveSTEM® prepares children for the future. My child had a blast in their fun and educational, hands-on programs.”
— Joseph Greer, Parent

Miles Davis Academy

Revolutionizing Science Education at Miles Davis Academy

At Chicago's Miles Davis Academy, a groundbreaking shift in science education has taken root through an engaging hydroponics program. In partnership with NextWave STEM's initiative, students from Grades 3-8 experience hands-on science in a vibrant, teamwork-focused environment. This innovative approach transcends traditional methods, replacing standard classroom routines with immersive, real-world applications. Celebrating community and creativity, these young minds now learn by growing plants and enjoying the fruits of their labor at a "salad party," transforming education into an exciting journey of discovery.

“Science education is most effective when students can explore beyond limitations and gain understanding first hand.
(...)
NextWaveSTEM® engages students in hands-on, experiential learning, fostering memorable experiences that can spark interest and enthusiasm for science and technology.”
— Erica McClendon Walker, MA, LSW, Program Manager, Chicago HOPES for Kids

Project INTEL: Empowering Chicago's Youth Through STEM

In Southside Chicago, Project INTEL emerges as a beacon of hope, providing underserved youth with cutting-edge STEM education and career training. Through a collaboration between NextWaveSTEM and Gary Comer Youth Center, supported by Verizon's Forward Community Enhancement Award, this initiative aims to bridge the technological divide and promote social equity. Project INTEL delivers hands-on technology courses, industry connections, and career certifications, transforming the future for middle and high school students.

Gary Comer Youth Center

“A huge thanks to the well organized NextWaveSTEM® staff for bringing these cherished learning opportunities to our school community.”
— Katherine Chuu, Principal, Armour Elementary School

Little Fort Elementary's STEM Triumph

Little Fort Elementary in Waukegan has found the perfect STEM solution through its partnership with NextWaveSTEM. This turnkey program offers engaging experiences with drones and 3D printing, overcoming traditional educational challenges. Principal Amy Grossman highlights how this approach has saved resources while fostering critical skills like problem-solving. Students are thrilled, saying, "It's the best club ever," as interest in STEM careers grows. With plans to expand, Little Fort's success story can inspire other schools to transform their STEM education.

“My job as a principal at Kellogg is to provide every opportunity I possibly can for students to be exposed to what they need to be successful and right now that area is STEM. I am really happy with how this year went with the robotics and drones programs. Hope we can continue next year!”
— Cory Overstreet, Principal at Kellogg

St. Athanasius School's STEM Solution

St. Athanasius School in Evanston, Illinois, has enriched its rigorous K-8 curriculum with NextWave STEM's program, overcoming the challenge of finding a dedicated STEM teacher. With their support, the school now offers engaging hands-on learning experiences in robotics, drones, and 3D printing to students in Grades 5-8, twice a week. This modern approach has brought real-world applications into the classroom since August 2021, enhancing creativity and 21st-century skills. Plans are underway to expand this successful program to additional grade levels.

“I liked the different activities we worked on. It was cool to see all the different things code can do.”
— Karl P., 7th Grade Student

George Washington Elementary School in Chicago

George Washington Elementary Embraces STEM

George Washington Elementary School in Chicago enhanced its PK-8 educational offerings with NextWave STEM's comprehensive program, overcoming remote learning challenges heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic. By providing equipment, lessons, and instructors, NextWave STEM facilitated engaging virtual robotics sessions for Grades 3-8. Students accessed free software from home, boosting participation and enhancing learning. The program's success led to in-person summer camps and expanded drone programs for younger students in subsequent school years.

“I joined the Discovery of Drones class today and I really enjoyed it! Coretta was engaging, prepared and knowledgeable. The student that was present was participating and that was great to see.”
— Roxana Handell, Resource Coordinator, Morrill Math & Science Elementary School, Community Schools Initiative, Metropolitan Family Services

Transforming Science Education at Miles Davis Academy

Miles Davis Academy in Chicago has revolutionized its science curriculum with an innovative hydroponics course, developed in collaboration with NextWave STEM. Aimed at Grades 3-8, this program offers hands-on, interactive learning that captivates students and fosters essential 21st-century skills. By engaging students in real-world applications, the academy overcomes traditional educational challenges, creating a vibrant community of young scientists eager to learn and grow.

“I liked learning about how I can design in 3D and what I could create. I want to take more classes like this one.”
— Manny G., 6th Grade Student
“The class size was small which was perfect for them all to keep up and be engaging. Paul was engaging and great. He was patient when they needed help, answered questions, asked how everyone was doing and allowed everyone time to catch up. We found it helpful to use a separate device since my boys used their iPads for the class and a computer for the Tinker website so they didn’t have to switch between the two. My boys are excited and encouraged to continue designing and learning more this technology. Thank you.”
— Jodel E., Parent
“Students absolutely loved the drone curriculum. Once they heard STEM was going to have a drone unit, enrollment doubled! The students were challenged to use their math skills and their coding skills to solve real-world problems with the drones. They loved the hands-on application, but we also had deep discussions on ethics and responsibility when it comes to drone use. Students were able to practice their writing skills as they formulated opinions on ethically sound use. The unit was ready to go and made it really easy for a drone newbie to implement with 7th and 8th grade students!”
— Dr. Traci Johnson, 7-12 Instructional Coach, Rochester CUSD 3A

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