Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators Through After-School STEM Programs
At St. Joseph School-Fullerton, we are committed to providing our students with innovative learning experiences beyond the classroom. Our after-school STEM programs offer students hands-on opportunities to engage with science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) in exciting and meaningful ways. Designed to spark creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, our programs ensure students develop a strong foundation in 21st-century skills while having fun.
STEAM with Snapology: A Creative Learning Experience for Grades 1-3
For our youngest learners in grades 1-3, St. Joseph School-Fullerton partners with Snapology to bring an engaging after-school STEAM program to our students. This program immerses children in hands-on activities that explore core STEAM principles through guided instruction and collaborative learning. Using LEGO bricks, technology, and interactive activities, students develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and teamwork in an environment that feels more like play than schoolwork. Whether they’re experimenting with engineering challenges or exploring the basics of robotics, our Snapology program fosters a love for learning while reinforcing fundamental STEAM concepts in a fun and supportive setting.
Robotics Club: Cutting-Edge Technology for Grades 4-8
For students in grades 4-8, our Robotics Club, led by Mr. Llufrio and Mrs. Donnelly, offers an incredible opportunity to dive deep into STEM learning through hands-on robotics and 3D printing. Students can choose between two innovative pathways: VEX IQ Robotics or 3D Printing.
VEX IQ Robotics: Engineering, Coding, and Competition (Grades 5-8)
The VEX IQ Robotics program allows students to build, code, and compete using plastic, snap-together robotic pieces. Students use VEXcode IQ to program their robots using block-based coding or Python. This program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork as students prepare for the VEX IQ Robotics Competition, an exciting challenge where students test their robots in real-world applications. The competition includes:
- Robot Skills Challenge: A single robot attempts to score as many points as possible.
- Teamwork Challenge: Two robots work together to complete a task, emphasizing strategy and collaboration.
By participating in VEX IQ, students gain exposure to robotics and develop key computational thinking and engineering skills that will benefit them in future STEM careers.
3D Printing: Bringing Ideas to Life
At St. Joseph School-Fullerton, students also have the opportunity to explore 3D design and printing using our four state-of-the-art 3D printers. Through this program, students learn the basics of computer-aided design (CAD) and bring their creations to life by designing and printing their own models. This hands-on approach allows students to blend creativity with engineering, helping them understand real-world applications of technology and innovation.
Why Choose St. Joseph School-Fullerton’s STEM Programs?
Our after-school STEM programs provide students with an innovative and engaging environment to develop essential science, engineering, technology, and mathematics skills. These programs empower students to become creative thinkers, confident problem-solvers, and future-ready leaders. Whether it’s exploring STEAM through Snapology, competing in VEX IQ Robotics, or designing with 3D printing, students at St. Joseph School-Fullerton are given the tools to succeed in a world driven by technology and innovation.
We encourage prospective families to explore all that our school has to offer. If you’re looking for a school that provides a well-rounded education with a strong emphasis on STEM, St. Joseph School-Fullerton is the perfect choice!
Post Date: February 7, 2025