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McKenney-Harrison Elementary

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Project-Based Learning

Kids holding globes they made

What It Is:
At DeKalb Central Schools, students build the Portrait of a Baron competencies through STEM and Project-Based Learning (PBL) experiences.

  • STEM learning integrates science, technology, engineering, and math into hands-on, student-centered units where kids tackle real-world problems.
  • Project-Based Learning allows students to master curriculum standards while solving authentic challenges that matter beyond the classroom.
     

Elementary School:

  • Students engage in science-based PBL units.
  • All students attend a computer science special once a week.
  • Extracurricular opportunities include the Robotics Team (grades 4–5) and the STEAM Team (grades 1–3).

Why It Matters:
Hands-on, authentic learning boosts student engagement and promotes deeper understanding. Research shows PBL improves learning outcomes while helping students strengthen the Portrait of a Baron competencies that prepare them for life after graduation.