Learning takes many paths, and at Shady Grove Elementary School in Burnet, one path meanders through the campus’ STEAM Lab.
“We call it STEAM, but it’s similar to a maker space. Really, the focus is encouraging creativity in their learning and letting the kids explore,” said Shady Grove Principal Tasha Breseño. “Yes, their teachers give them some guidance, but it’s a chance for the kids to have some more control over their learning.”
STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. The concept is to give students an early opportunity to explore major career paths, but the Shady Grove lab is more about helping students find their learning path.
“For me, the heart of (the STEAM Lab) is it’s not always easy for the kids who may not do as well in (traditional) academics,” Breseño said. “Every child has their own set of…
