Our Magnet Theme: STEAM
CKMS provides engaging learning opportunities in STEM with technology and arts integration. We value creativity and innovation while helping all students to discover passions and develop a lifelong love of learning."
- Christine Dauphinais, Principal of Catherine Kolnaski STEAM Magnet School
Magnet Theme: STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math)
By providing students opportunities in STEAM we believe our school will help develop the next generation of innovators and creative thinkers. By activating the creative and innovative parts of the brain, students become creators, collaborators, and problem-solvers. Our entire community embraces a STEAM approach that promotes student creativity and curiosity by emphasizing project-based and hands-on, minds-on learning.
CKMS provides students with a strong foundation through STEAM-based experiences, classes, units, lessons, and opportunities to engage in real-world problem-solving, using a multidisciplinary approach and integrating technology and the arts. In addition to problem solving, an emphasis is placed on providing students with an opportunity to express their creativity and discover talents and passions that lead to lifelong learning.
School Highlights
- A STEAM-Rich Elementary Learning Environment: A hands-on, inquiry-based program where science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics are integrated across learning experiences for all students in grades K–5.
- Strong Community Partnerships: Learning is enriched through partnerships with leading organizations, including the Connecticut Science Center, Project Oceanology, New England Science and Sailing (NESS).
- Guaranteed STEAM Experiences for Every Student: All K–5 students participate in engineering, computer science and coding, LEGO robotics, and maker education through art and media.
- Enrichment Beyond the Classroom: Expanded learning opportunities include a school-wide STEAM fair, 3D printing, piano instruction beginning in Grade 1, and strings instruction beginning in Grade 2.
- Real-World STEM Connections: Participation in Electric Boat’s Boat for Kids Program, a hands-on STEM experience introducing students to manufacturing and engineering careers.
- Innovation & Student Creativity: 3rd- and 5th-grade students participate in the annual Invention Convention, showcasing creativity, problem-solving, and design thinking. An annual STEAM Night highlights student projects and brings together families and community partners.
- Learning Inspired by Nature: A unique campus set in a private, wooded environment, surrounded by town open space with hiking trails. Outdoor learning is supported through an outdoor classroom and school garden, extending STEAM learning beyond our classrooms.
Meet Our Partners
CKMS News
CKMS Partnership with the Connecticut Science Center
Classroom Programs and Professional Workshops Will Immerse Teachers and Students in Science Education
The Connecticut Science Center recently visited 2nd grade students to conduct hands on experiments that align to the students' classroom curriculum. Check out the photos and learn more about our new partnership. Read More
