Preparing Students for Future STEM Careers
Crete-Monee School District 201-U has launched an exciting educational initiative by opening a cutting-edge SmartLab at Talala Elementary. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on November 8 to celebrate this important milestone, coinciding with National STEM and STEAM Day. The event was attended by school leaders, educators, students, community members, and a representative from SmartLab, highlighting the district’s commitment to equipping young learners with essential skills for the future.
The SmartLab is designed to provide a hands-on learning environment centered around STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Students will engage in robotics, coding, and engineering activities that promote creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. This initiative seeks to ignite curiosity and foster perseverance through experimentation and problem-solving, preparing students for the evolving demands of a technology-driven world.
The district is in the process of hiring a facilitator to manage the SmartLab, as well as oversee the technology and educational integration. Talala Principal Stacey Schwuchow shared, “We’re excited to inspire our students with STEM exploration while offering innovative technology to support their future.” Currently, students in grades third through fifth have a set schedule for using the SmartLab.
Superintendent Dr. Kara Coglianese remarked, “Integrating the SmartLab into our educational framework represents our strategic plan to create a more adaptive, student-centric learning environment.” She emphasized that this is just the beginning of establishing a SmartLab in every elementary school in the district.
Ghantel Perkins, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning, added, “We are committed to empowering our students with the opportunities they need to succeed, and we could not be more excited to see how the SmartLab will ignite their passion for discovery.”