Inspiring Future Innovators Through STEM at St. Joseph School-Fullerton
STEM Inspires Future Innovators at St. Joseph School-Fullerton
At St. Joseph School-Fullerton (SJSF), STEM education empowers students from Pre-K through eighth grade to become future-ready leaders. Located in Perry Hall, MD, this private Catholic school integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. As an extension to the daily curriculum, after-school STEM offerings provide programs for students to dive deeper into robotics, 3D design, coding, and engineering.
Many schools, including SJSF, have embraced STEAM by incorporating the arts into STEM education, encouraging innovation and deeper learning. "At St. Joseph School-Fullerton, we are dedicated to providing students with innovative learning experiences beyond the classroom," said Principal Mrs. Chrissie Ashby. "From our three after-school STEM clubs to the more than 20 clubs and activities available, we strive to create opportunities where every student can explore their interests, develop new skills, and thrive."
Getting Started When They’re Young
For its youngest learners in grades 1-3, St. Joseph School-Fullerton partners with STEAM education company Snapology, to engage students with guided instruction, and collaborative learning. Using LEGO bricks, technology, and interactive activities, SJSF students gain a firm foundation in STEAM principles through activities that feel more like play than schoolwork.
A Deeper Dive into Tech
For students in grades 4-8, SJSF offers the opportunity to venture more deeply into STEM learning in Robotics Club. Led by SJSF teachers Mr. Matthew Llufrio and Mrs. Amber Donnelly, Robotics Club offers hands-on learning with VEX IQ Robotics and 3D Printing. In its VEX IQ Robotics program, students design, build, and program robots using block-based coding or Python. “This program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork,” says Mr. Matthew Llufrio.
Mr. Llufrio, who holds a Master’s in Education in Instructional Design and Technology, pioneered SJSF’s STEM curriculum and continues to shape its growth.
“We look forward to entering competitions like the VEX IQ Robotics Competition and assisting students in applying for STEM scholarships,” Mr. Llufrio adds. “ We are also introducing Meta Oculus Quest 3 headsets, giving students hands-on experience with immersive and augmented reality.” SJSF is one of the few schools in the area with this cutting-edge technology.
Students also explore 3D design and printing using one of the school’s 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. “Our after-school STEM programs ensure students develop a strong foundation in 21st-century skills while having fun,” said Mrs. Amber Donnelly. “They are empowered to be confident problem-solvers and creative thinkers.”
About St. Joseph School
St. Joseph School-Fullerton provides a well-rounded education rooted in academic excellence and spiritual growth, welcoming students of all faiths and backgrounds. Beyond STEM, students participate in extracurriculars like Band, Choir, Chess Club, Drama Club, Cross Country, and academic competitions such as It’s Academic and Math Olympiad.
Recognitions & Accolades
For the 8th consecutive year, St. Joseph School-Fullerton has earned the prestigious distinction of being a Top Workplace by The Baltimore Sun, a testament to the school’s unwavering commitment to fostering a nurturing, faith-centered educational environment.
This year, SJSF’s excellence was further recognized with another incredible honor—being named the Best Private School (Co-Ed) in the 2024 Baltimore Style Reader’s Choice Awards. This accolade is a reflection of the strong sense of community, academic excellence, and the holistic approach to education that SJSF provides.
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.
Post Date: February 25, 2025