By STEM Coach Frankie Portelos https://www.parentmagazinesflorida.com/sebastian-middle-schools-buffet-of-technological-careers-sparks-interest-and-skills
Imagine discovering your favorite dish, only to stumble upon a new delicacy that surpasses it. This analogy perfectly captures the spirit of Sebastian Middle School’s innovative approach to education. Through our Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) classes, students are introduced to a wide array of career-oriented skills. By using this “Buffet of Technological Careers” approach, we not only ignite curiosity but also foster skills that can lead to lifelong career paths. It’s no surprise that Sebastian is the district’s only Cognia-certified STEM school.
To fuel students’ enthusiasm, Sebastian taps into popular culture and authentic real-world learning. When discovering 3D design, students create skate parks, basketball courts, sneaker stores or their dream homes. In audio engineering classes, they compose music that can become ringtones or alarms for their parents’ phones. In coding classes, students develop Minecraft games or virtual reality scenes. They learn photo editing, programming languages and even typing. A recently formed fishing club even allows students to design and 3D print their own lures with the added excitement of observing fish behavior through an underwater drone. At Sebastian, student engagement is always the goal.
Bernie Huffman, Frankie Portelos, and Christopher Clouse
Moreover, Sebastian Middle School integrates these technological skills into core subjects. For example, after reading “The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind” in 7th grade English-Language Arts, students build wind turbines in STEM class. Social studies students learn about government systems and then create their own websites using skills learned in STEM. Sixth graders study the Greek and Roman empires, followed by designing and 3D printing miniature columns, temples and sculptures. These interdisciplinary connections highlight Sebastian’s ‘A’ rated commitment to hands-on learning and academic excellence.
The impact of this approach is evident. Students enthusiastically work on their projects outside of class and excitedly share their latest creations with teachers. Many express a desire to pursue careers in fields introduced through these classes. St. Augustine High School recently reported an increase in aerospace academy enrollment from Sebastian students, with many attributing their interest to their experience at Sebastian. Our collaboration with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University provides 8th graders with a deeper understanding of aerospace, giving them a head start as they transition to high school.
Water rocket
As Sebastian moves forward, the school remains committed to carving out career pathways for this generation and beyond. The school extends its gratitude to the community members on the STEM advisory board for their ongoing support in making Sebastian an exciting and forward-thinking place to learn. Go Eagles!
