Page 5 - TTWIWinter2024V2

STEM
Teaching Today Wisconsin | Winter 2024 Volume 2 Page 5

Exploring Badger High School’s STEM Programs

lum. This collaboration partnered with uW Madison to integrate engaging in 3D printing, and conducting
ensures that our Engi- Phenomena based Learning, which is rooted chemistry experiments, students witness the
neering and Computer in the idea that students can learn about transformation of abstract ideas into tangible
Science programs are not science starting with observation. prototypes. This practical approach equips
just theoretical but incor- Aaron burg, badger’s Science Depart- them with the skills necessary for success in
porate practical skills ment head, emphasizes the dynamic nature their chosen STEM fields.
crucial for real-world of STEM Chem: “In STEM Chem, we col- badger high School takes pride in its
applications. Project laboratively test designs and work through FabLab, a facility that fosters innovation. In
Lead the Way is a strate- complex science that rarely has a single proximity to our design studios, the FabLab
gic framework, guiding answer. Students experience learning and is a crucial space where students bring their
students toward success science as a process rather than as a destina- ideas to life. Whether working with metals,
in dynamic fields such as tion. We think this is the best way that we can woods, or engaging in advanced computer
engineering and technol- prepare ALL of our students, whether future science and chemistry experiments, this
ogy. scientists, citizens, partners, homeowners, lab unleashes creativity and pushes the
our Engineering business and community leaders, citizens boundaries of what’s achievable in STEM
program has garnered -- humans -- to tackle the complexities that fields. Rachel Harmeling, Badger’s Library
recognition on multiple the future is certainly going to present. We Media Specialist, highlights the value of the
fronts, notably being rec- anchor our learning in challenges such as FabLab: “It is exciting to witness students
ognized as the Wisconsin designing hand sanitizer, quality-controlled entering the badger FabLab with innova-
Technology Education tie dye, a disaster response food container, tive concepts and using their STEM skills to
Association (WTEA) a marketable soap, a cross-categorical bath bring those concepts to life. Whether it be the
Program of the Year bomb, and optimization of cannons. We have creation of a 3D-printed gaming keyboard or
in 2022 and the presti- fun working through the chemistry con- the crafting of a laser-cut wooden jewelry
gious ITEEA Program nected to these challenges.” box, students acquire and develop invalu-
of Excellence Award in badger high School goes beyond able skills that will contribute to their future
2023. These accolades traditional education by offering unique success.”
result from our commit- opportunities for dual enrollment with badger high School’s STEM programs
ment to delivering an Gateway Technical College (GTC). This are grounded in facts and achievements.
outstanding curriculum initiative allows students not only to earn The districts’ mission statement; Engage,
that prepares students high school credits but also to gain expo- Educate, Empower is truly an embodiment
Jake Popanda for the challenges and sure to a college-level education. During the of our comprehensive STEM and Engineer-
College & Career Readiness Coordinator opportunities in technology and engineering 2022 - 2023 school year badger students and ing programs. From prestigious recognitions
Badger High School fields. families saved $536,845.18 in tuition from to hands-on labs and strategic partnerships,
badger high School is a district that As part of PLTW, our Computer Science GTC through our transcripted credit pro- every element is meticulously crafted to
strives to create environments where aca- program broadens horizons by providing stu- gramming. Transcripted credit courses are provide students with a solid foundation and
demic excellence meets innovation. The dents with immersive experiences in coding taught in our building by our highly qualified practical skills for success in the dynamic
districts’ vision statement is, “Creating and and contemporary technologies. With a focus instructors through an agreement with GTC. realms of engineering, technology, and
Connecting opportunities for Excellence”. on real-world applications, students in this our school provides 32 different transcripted science.
At badger, our commitment to provid- program gain valuable insights and skills credit courses; among those 32 courses are
ing top-notch education is reflected in our that prepare them for the rapidly evolving varying Engineering courses. The seamless
distinguished STEM programs. In this over- landscape of computer science. Similarly, transition between high school and college bhs.badger.k12.wi.us
view, we’ll dive into the key features of our the STEM Chemistry class at badger high sets our students on a path toward success in
Engineering, Computer Science, and STEM School serves as a platform for hands-on engineering, computer science, and chemis-
Chemistry programs, highlighting the facts exploration in science. Through practical try.
that define our approach. experiments, students delve into the fun- our STEM programs emphasize prac-
badger high School is a STEM educa- damental principles of chemistry, igniting tical application, ensuring students move
tion hub, anchored by our partnership with curiosity and promoting critical thinking. beyond theoretical concepts to hands-on
Project Lead the Way (PLTW) curricu- The science department at badger has also experiences. utilizing tools like AutoDesk,