STEM-based learning is thriving across the Carle Place Schools, with students engaging in hands-on, inquiry-based experiences that build curiosity and problem-solving skills through real-world application. From early elementary classrooms to advanced secondary courses, the district is committed to providing meaningful opportunities that connect science, technology, engineering and mathematics to authentic learning experiences and real-world skills.
Cherry Lane School students have been engaged in hands-on, project-based learning units exploring coding, mapping and science through real-world applications. First graders completed a unit on coding and mapping where they identified key landmarks around the school, mapped directions and programmed robots to navigate to each location. They also strengthened foundational coding skills through online programs and “unplugged” activities that combined teamwork, problem-solving and digital literacy.
Second graders applied science and math concepts in the kitchen through the Connected Cooking unit. Using zucchini harvested from the school garden, students measured, mixed and baked zucchini bread while learning about physical and chemical changes. Working in small groups, they rotated through culinary stations, taking on roles at the dry ingredients, wet ingredients, mixing and zucchini stations, blending hands-on teamwork with classroom concepts.
At Rushmore Avenue School, students take part in STEM enrichment opportunities through the classes led by Mrs. Tusa and Mrs. Sohn. Mrs. Sohn guides students through advanced math enrichment, including the BEAST Academy challenge program and Math Olympiad, while also introducing sixth graders to financial literacy through activities such as a stock market game. Fourth grade students recently completed invention projects, designing models of their ideas and creating commercials to showcase their creations.
In Mrs. Tusa’s STEM classes, students build on the science and math concepts taught in their classrooms through hands-on exploration and problem-solving. Third graders have been introduced to coding through interactive activities, while fourth graders explored how computers store information by learning about binary language and creating pixel art images. Fifth grade students studied weather, air pressure and the water cycle, designing and building working models to demonstrate each process. Sixth graders expanded their understanding of physics by designing, sketching and constructing their own nutcracker models.
Carle Place Middle/High School offers opportunities for students to experience and expand on STEM. At the middle school, aspiring scientists and mathematicians begin their enrichment experience early by enrolling in the STEM Enrichment course held during zero period.
Under the guidance of Ms. DeMaio and Mr. Barrett, students engage in projects and learning experiences designed to strengthen analytical thinking, problem-solving and research skills. Throughout the course, students prepare to participate in Math Olympiad and Science Olympiad competitions and begin developing independent research projects for submission to the Long Island Science Congress in the spring. Students are encouraged to pursue topics of personal interest and design projects that address real-world problems and challenges.
Students in CPMS/HS have access to a wide range of technology and engineering courses designed to build skills in design, coding, engineering and hands-on problem-solving. Courses such as design and drawing for production and architecture introduce students to the graphic language of engineering and construction through a combination of hand drawing and computer-aided design using tools like AutoCAD and Autodesk. Through hands-on projects and modeling, students build technical skills, strengthen creative problem-solving and develop portfolios that support future studies in engineering, architecture and design.
The district also offers applied STEM courses such as woodworking, small engines and principles of engineering, which allow students to explore real-world concepts through collaborative, project-based learning. Students build and design tangible products, study mechanical systems and analyze structures, energy and accessibility challenges. In addition, the district’s various computer science offerings provide opportunities to explore coding, programming and digital media, with students creating games, interactive art and physical computing projects, while advanced coursework examines algorithms, problem-solving and the social and ethical impacts of technology.
Across all programs, students gain practical experience and critical thinking skills that prepare them for future studies and careers in STEM fields.
In addition, Carle Place High School’s newly launched FIRST Tech Challenge “Frogbotics” team, had a strong debut at the Long Island qualifier in Locust Valley on Jan. 31. Comprised of motivated students in grades 7-12, the team designed, built and programmed its first competition robot while developing skills in engineering, collaboration and innovation. At the qualifier, students successfully passed robot inspection, presented their team’s origin story and engineering design process to a panel of judges and competed against experienced teams from across Long Island. In support of growing student interest in robotics and engineering, the district will introduce a new robotics course next year, offering students the opportunity to further explore coding, programming and robot design.
Meanwhile, Carle Place High School’s Research Program, led by Mrs. Foraker, has remained busy throughout the year. Students began by exploring sustainable plant growth beyond Earth through participation in the Plant the Moon Challenge. Midyear, they submitted individual video projects for Stony Brook University’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science Challenge and are developing research projects for submission to the Long Island Science Congress.
Together, the STEM initiatives at Cherry Lane, Rushmore Avenue School and Carle Place Middle/High School reflect a cohesive approach to building critical thinking, creativity and innovation at every level. By offering developmentally appropriate, hands-on experiences and progressively advanced coursework, the district ensures that students are supported as they grow into confident learners prepared to explore challenges, collaborate effectively and apply STEM skills beyond the classroom.
