Building positive self-identity by Franci Bell
Elementary and middle school students actively engage in the lifelong identity development process. They...
STEM
At The Cooper School, our dedication to STEM education is robust and comprehensive, transcending traditional boundaries to equip our students with a dynamic and hands-on approach to physical computing and engineering. Our curriculum goes beyond the ordinary, empowering students to explore the boundless potential of the digital age.
Circuit Kits
Our learners are introduced to circuit kits that bridge the worlds of software and hardware, offering a multifaceted approach to understanding technology. They embark on a journey that involves creating diverse circuits using tangible components on a breadboard. Through these engaging projects, our students learn to construct and modify circuits and develop a profound grasp of electronics.
As they explore coding, younger students engage in visual block-based coding languages, using play and puzzles and small robots designed to help students understand cause and effect and directional language.
Coding
As our students advance into the upper grades, the opportunities to harness the power of coding expand even further. In this phase of their educational journey, they delve into various coding projects that involve creating and programming their mobile apps using languages like JavaScript or Swift. They also engage in web development, learning to design and build interactive websites from scratch and gaining a deeper understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
For those with a passion for gaming, our students have the chance to develop their own video games. They learn the intricacies of game design and delve into the coding that brings their game worlds to life.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled with The Cooper School’s program! Our daughter has developed a profound love for science and computer science that we never thought possible at her age. The hands-on approach to learning has made complex concepts accessible, and the enthusiastic teachers have sparked a curiosity that extends beyond the classroom. The school’s commitment to fostering a passion for STEM is evident in the challenging yet engaging projects, such as robotics and engineering challenges, that our child eagerly shares with us at home.”
Engineering
Additionally, our students are given the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in real-world engineering projects. This initiative invites them to address pressing global engineering challenges, utilizing their scientific and mathematical knowledge to devise solutions that have a tangible impact. Our students glean valuable insights into practical problem-solving approaches through dynamic interviews with experts and engineers.
This holistic approach fosters a sense of identity as future engineers, equipping our students to confront real-world challenges, whether designing earthquake-resistant structures in Haiti or creating eco-friendly, recycled race cars for a derby in Senegal. They also engage in robotics projects where they construct and program robots to navigate mazes, complete challenges, or even compete in robotics competitions. These experiences blend mechanical engineering with coding, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving.
“As parents, we chose The Cooper School for its reputation for providing exceptional education, and it has exceeded our expectations. Our son, who has always been interested in technology, has been delighted by the computer science program. The dedicated teachers have imparted technical skills and instilled a problem-solving mindset and a deep appreciation for innovation. We are witnessing firsthand the development of a young mind that is not just learning about science and technology but is actively applying these skills in exciting and creative ways. The Cooper School is shaping our son’s future, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the comprehensive STEM education he is receiving.”
At The Cooper School, STEM is not just an educational path; it’s a transformative journey that empowers young minds to think critically and innovate, going hand in hand with our project-based approach and ensuring students are well-prepared for the complex and dynamic world of tomorrow.