How Garvey School District Can Lead in STEAM: Learning from California's Top Success Stories

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) programs have been revolutionizing education across California, preparing students for an ever-evolving technological world. Districts such as Los Angeles Unified, San Bernardino City Unified, Menifee Union, Sacramento City Unified, and Fresno Unified have implemented successful STEAM initiatives, setting standards for others to follow.

As a candidate for the Garvey School District Board, I’m committed to bringing the same level of innovation and opportunities to our schools.

To make this vision a reality, I plan to meet with educational leaders from these districts, learn from their successes, and figure out how we can fast-track the implementation of STEAM programs for Garvey students.

The blueprint for success is clear, and it’s time for Garvey to follow suit.

Here’s how we can make it happen, step by step, with lessons learned from some of California’s top-performing districts.

Success Stories from California’s Top STEAM Districts

1. Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD):
LAUSD is a leader in STEAM education, thanks to partnerships with institutions like UCLA. They offer cutting-edge programs that focus on robotics, coding, and real-world applications, ensuring that students from all backgrounds benefit. LAUSD’s focus on equity ensures that underserved communities have access to the same high-quality STEAM education, helping to bridge the achievement gap and provide opportunities for all.

2. San Bernardino City Unified School District:
San Bernardino has seen tremendous success by integrating project-based learning with real-world applications. Students are encouraged to solve practical problems using STEAM principles, while partnerships with local businesses provide hands-on experiences that make learning relevant and exciting. This approach ensures that students learn how to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world challenges.

3. Menifee Union School District - Harvest Hill STEAM Academy:
Menifee Union has turned STEAM education into an engaging and innovative journey. The district’s focus on creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking has led to impressive results. By forging strong community partnerships and adopting innovative teaching methods, Menifee Union equips students with 21st-century skills like problem-solving and effective communication, preparing them for future challenges.

4. Sacramento City Unified School District:
Sacramento’s MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) program has helped students, particularly those from underserved communities, excel in STEAM fields. This program provides a clear pathway from K-12 education to college, ensuring that students are prepared for both academic and career success. Sacramento City’s approach to STEAM education serves as a model for helping students of all backgrounds achieve their full potential.

5. Fresno Unified School District:
Fresno Unified’s Career Technical Education (CTE) program is another success story. CTE offers students hands-on experience in fields like health sciences, engineering, and information technology. By combining traditional classroom learning with career preparation, Fresno is ensuring that students are ready for the workforce. This holistic approach to education helps students become well-rounded and career-ready.

How We Can Bring STEAM to Garvey: My Plan

As I’ve learned from reading from these successful districts, implementing STEAM programs doesn’t have to be slow or overly complicated. Here’s how I plan to fast-track STEAM education in the Garvey School District:

1. Partner with Local Businesses and Universities

Successful districts like LAUSD and San Bernardino have partnered with local industries and universities to bring resources, mentorship, and real-world projects to their students. I plan to work closely with tech companies, engineering firms, and local colleges to ensure Garvey students have similar opportunities. These partnerships will provide internships, classroom resources, and hands-on learning experiences that make education meaningful.

2. Apply for State and Federal Grants

Programs like California’s K-12 Strong Workforce Program and federal STEAM grants provide the financial support needed to launch these initiatives. By aggressively pursuing these grants, I will ensure that Garvey has the funding to build out our STEAM programs without relying solely on district funds. Grants can be the key to bringing advanced technology and innovative learning experiences into our classrooms.

3. Invest in Teacher Training

Teachers are the backbone of any successful STEAM program. I will focus on providing professional development opportunities that equip teachers to integrate STEAM into their lessons. From learning to teach coding and digital arts to mastering project-based learning, Garvey’s teachers will have the support and resources they need. Additionally, I will implement mentorship programs, pairing our teachers with professionals from STEAM fields to further enhance their teaching methods.

4. Start with Pilot Programs

To ensure that we move quickly and effectively, I plan to launch pilot STEAM programs in select elementary and middle schools. These pilot programs will create a strong foundation for STEAM learning and serve as models for expanding STEAM district-wide. By focusing on both elementary and middle schools, we can ensure that students develop a passion for STEAM from an early age.

5. Incorporate Project-Based Learning

Project-based learning allows students to apply STEAM principles to solve real-world problems. For example, students could work on projects that address community issues like environmental sustainability or urban planning. These projects not only teach essential STEAM skills but also help students connect their learning to the world around them, making education more engaging and impactful.

6. Expand After-School and Summer Programs

STEAM education shouldn’t be limited to the school day. I will advocate for after-school clubs and summer camps that focus on STEAM subjects like robotics, engineering, coding, and the arts. These programs will provide students with additional learning opportunities and foster a deeper love for STEAM subjects.

A Path to Success

By learning from the success of districts like LAUSD, San Bernardino, and Menifee Union, we can bring transformative STEAM education to Garvey. If elected, I am committed to fast-tracking these programs so that every student in our district has the opportunity to thrive. STEAM education isn’t just about mastering subjects—it’s about shaping the future leaders, thinkers, and problem-solvers of tomorrow.

Reach Out: Let’s Work Together

I’m excited about the future of Garvey School District, and I want to hear from you. Your input is essential to making STEAM a success in Garvey.

Let’s discuss how we can work together to bring these programs to our students.

Contact Information:
Phone: +1-626-553-0559
Email: info@voteforsusiecubas.com

Together, we can create a safer, smarter, and brighter future for all students in the Garvey School District.

Thank you for your support!