Waterloo Elementary's STEAM Shoppe was recognized by EducationCloset, an national online collaborative publication dedicated to STEAM and arts programs, with an article on June 1 in the "School Spotlight" section.
"As most of us know, schools often need fundraisers throughout the year to support various programs and purchase much needed supplies for their classrooms," Susan Riley's article begins. "These typically involve parents selling various candles, bags and wrapping paper to help support the school goals. Waterloo Elementary in Monroe, Michigan has taken a different approach to their fundraising efforts."
The article continues to describe how Waterloo's winter STEAM fundraising initiative gives kids learning opportunities from start to finish, beginning with crafting gifts and items for sale, then money management skills, and on.
“There are so many life lessons that are part of this process – it’s really exciting to be a part of something like this,” Waterloo Principal Meghan Gibson said.
The article came after Riley, who wrote some of the material Waterloo has studied as part of maintaing its STEAM program, posted on EducationCloset that she was looking for videos of schools integrating STEAM and the arts. The video that Waterloo submitted in conunction with the ISD can be viewed here.
"What a tribute to everyone and their hard work!" Monroe Public Schools Superintendent Julie Everly said. "When I read the article, my mind travels back to the very beginning when we were discussing what STEAM would look like and sound like at Waterloo School. Since then, the growth and journey has been such an honor to be part of-- and a true treat to watch evolve."
Congratulations to Waterloo Elementary for being recognized nationally for its hard work!