FERNDALE, Mich. — Ferndale Public Schools was one of three Oakland County districts chosen to host Oakland Schools’ new STEAM Lab Exchange, a professional learning series that brings educators into one another’s classrooms to observe, reflect on and share STEM practices. Ferndale hosted the first session on Oct. 28.
Oakland Schools selected Ferndale to highlight its work in STEM and STEAM — science, technology, engineering, arts and math — with a focus on the district’s student learning spaces and its approach to designing equitable, student-centered STEM learning experiences. The session centered on the STEM/STEAM learning environment and the transferable skills students build there.
“Being chosen to host the first STEAM Lab Exchange reflects the work our teachers do every day to make STEM learning hands-on, creative and open to every student,” said Superintendent Camille Hibbler. “We are proud of Kelsey and Courtney for showing educators across Oakland County what that looks like in Ferndale classrooms, and we are grateful to Oakland Schools for the opportunity.”
Visiting educators observed two lessons: one at Ferndale Lower Elementary taught by Kelsey Perkins, technology integration specialist at Ferndale for Oakland Schools, and one at Ferndale Upper Elementary, known as FUEL, taught by Courtney McClenahan, FUEL’s Art and STEAM teacher.
After each classroom visit, participants debriefed together, discussed what they saw and set aside time to plan next steps for their own classrooms and districts.
The STEAM Lab Exchange is a pilot program limited to 10 participants per session, and educators are invited for the perspective and expertise they bring. As part of the cohort, McClenahan will continue to collaborate with the other STEM and STEAM teachers who took part, sharing ideas and instructional practices across districts.
The series continues Nov. 10 at Patterson Elementary and Holly Middle School in Holly and Dec. 11 at Birmingham Covington School and Greenfield Elementary in Birmingham. REMC 17 provides substitute reimbursement and lunch for participating educators.
About Ferndale Public Schools
Founded in 1887, Ferndale Public Schools serves approximately 3,100 students from the communities of Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Oak Park, Royal Oak Township and portions of Hazel Park. The district provides a comprehensive educational experience from early childhood through high school, offering rigorous academics, innovative learning opportunities, award-winning arts and athletics, career and technical education, and comprehensive social-emotional supports. Recognized for its commitment to equity, inclusion and student-centered learning, Ferndale Public Schools empowers every student to discover their potential, achieve academic success and become engaged members of their communities.
To learn more about Ferndale Public Schools, visit the website. To stay up to date on district news, events and announcements, visit the News page.