Seeds of STEM Curriculum:

The core curriculum used in all PreK3 and PreK4 classrooms, Seeds of STEM integrates science concepts with engineering practices, fostering a hands-on learning experience. Students are immersed in problem-solving activities where they define and research a problem, brainstorm possible solutions, and sort them into testable and non-testable options. Our young scientists and engineers then plan, create, test, revise, and exchange their final solutions, sharing their work with their peers.

Research-Based Development:

Seeds of STEM was developed by researchers from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), the College of the Holy Cross, and teachers from the Worcester Child Development Head Start Program. The curriculum received funding from the US Department of Education. Our PreK staff members underwent a year of professional development training from WPI STEM Center Directors Dr. Mia Dubosarsky and Ms. Donna Taylor.

Standards Alignment: Seeds of STEM aligns with four sets of standards, ensuring a comprehensive and well-rounded educational experience for our students. These standards include the Next Generation Science Standards (Kindergarten), the Common Core standards for Mathematics (Kindergarten), the Massachusetts Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) frameworks (Pre-K and Kindergarten), and the Head Start's Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF).

Scope and Sequence: 

Our PreK3 and PreK4 programs follow a carefully planned scope and sequence, providing a structured learning journey for our young learners. The following outline highlights the units covered throughout the academic year:

• Unit 1: Introduction to Problem-Solving (September)
• Unit 8: Light & Shadow (October)
• Unit 5: Forces & Motion (November)
• Unit 2: Ice and Water (December/January)
• Unit 3: Habitats (February)
• Unit 4: 5 Senses (March)
• Unit 6: Properties of Matter (April)
• Unit 7: Plant Parts & Needs (May)