Amber Quirk

Regional Superintendent

DuPage County Schools

Regional Office of Education

421 N. County Farm Rd

Wheaton, IL 60187

630.407.5800

The STEM Insider

May 2025

NEWS

An Educator's Guide to Stronger Math Achievement

Education Week reporters reviewed the research to identify the best practices to teach students the math skills they need and boost their confidence in the subject. Access more information about this study and the practical tips and strategies offered for math teachers of all grade levels.

STEM vs. STEAM: How Educators View Arts and Sciences in K-12 Classrooms Today

The NSF coined the acronym STEM in 2001 and STEAM emerged in 2006. Today, both frameworks play a significant role in preparing students for new career pathways and the skills they’ll need to succeed. Experts say that well-designed curricula should help students develop creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Learn more.

Workforce Development and CTE Programs Open Doors for K–12 Students

With a high demand for skilled professionals to fill technical roles, K–12 schools must find ways to prepare students for these opportunities. For some districts, that means introducing science, technology, engineering and math lessons to students early. In others, it means giving students the chance to train and earn certifications in technology fields before they graduate. Take a closer look.

EVENTS

Encouraging Young Women to Pursue Careers in STEM - Apply by June 1, 2025

ComEd’s EV Rally is ComEd’s signature summer STEM program that encourages young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). This year, 45 students will work with female ComEd mentors over four build days to build high-tech, electric go-carts while learning about a variety of STEM career opportunities. The program culminates with a once-in-a-lifetime event where nine teams of teens will race their completed cars on Saturday, July 26. Applications for this program are NOW OPEN. Any female, Illinois resident between the ages of 13 and 18 are encouraged to apply between now and June 1, 2025. Click here to apply!

Revolutionzing Education - June 5, 2025; Lake Park East High School

Join Keynote Speaker, Eric Santos from the Learning Technology Center, as we explore how AI is transforming education, from its impact on classrooms and curriculum to the tools, ethics, and guidance educators need to navigate this evolving landscape. Then, take part in a dynamic panel discussion, followed by a self-selected 90-minute breakout session where you can dive deeper into the topic of your choice! Learn more and register today!

Early Childhood STEAM Experiences through Play - June 9, 2025; Webinar

Speakers will share evidence-based, hands-on approaches and a practical framework to effectively integrate STEAM learning in grades pre-K to 3. Leave this event with ideas for playing alongside young learners to make powerful STEAM discoveries and foster a lifelong love of learning.

21st Century Mathematics - A Free Online Experience for Teachers in Grades K-12 - July 2025

Justin Lanier, an American mathematician working at the University of Sydney, Australia, is offering this free online learning experience for K-12 teachers. Participation over the course of the month is very flexible. All details and the registration form can be found here.

RESOURCES

So, What's Bugging You?

PBS offers several videos and activity ideas to study close up the creepy crawlies that have begun to emerge. To view the collection designed for grades 6-12, click here.

Digital Literacy for Littles

Navigating the digital world with young students isn't easy, but it can start with something as simple as a song. In this podcast, we talk with a digital literacy expert about helping children in preschool through 3rd grade build healthy, lasting digital habits.

Building Balance between Online Connections and the Offline World

Digital wellness starts at home. This parents guide offers actionalabe steps fostering digital resilience by

recognizing signs of overuse;
starting open conversations about digital habits;
creating tech-free zones at home; and
responsibly managing social media access and use creativity and critical thinking skills through these activities.

The Power of Moms: Uplifting and Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators

In honor of Mother’s Day, the National Girls Collaborative Project is recognizing the four very important ways that moms actively spark their children’s curiosity and long-term interest in STEM. Read more.

How to Teach K-12 Coding Without Computers

In addition to the actual lessons, it is important to build a classroom culture that embraces problem solving and critical thinking. Click here to discover unplugged ways to get students involved with coding.

DuPage ROE STEM Squad Is Here to Support You

It is never too early to being planning for next year! The STEM Squad can partner with you in a number of ways, from planning to implementation. Explore a few of these listed below. Thinking of something not included? Simply ask and we will do our best to help. Email Dr. Mary Biniewicz.

STEM - It's Elementary - various topics for grades K-5
After School Outreach - various topics for grades 6-8
STEM Trunks - geared toward K-12
Plus we offer a website with numerouse resources; sponsor a STEM Network group; and can assist with activities when you plan a STEM event or host an activity at your STEM event.