Take a Glimpse at the State-of-the-Art School
The Discovery STEM Academy, scheduled to open in September 2016, is one of a few elementary schools in the country designed from the ground up as a STEM learning facility. The state-of-the-art magnet school replaces the former Magruder Elementary School housing kindergarten through third-grade students during the 2016-2017 school year.
Designed by Grimm and Parker Architects and built by Oyster Point Construction, Discovery STEM Academy features 36 classrooms, collaborative learning zones for each grade level, a nutrition lab (kitchen and dining area), a fitness lab (gymnasium), an art room, a two-level media center with a project-based learning area, a community resource area, a courtyard with outdoor learning spaces and an amphitheater with a stage that connects to the fitness lab for indoor and outdoor performances.
The Discovery STEM Academy’s curriculum features an innovative, problem-based learning design rooted in STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Each unit includes a real-world problem that students must solve by assuming a potential career and applying learning gained throughout the unit of study. Students will work collaboratively using this design process to structure their thinking.
Students will make connections across all subject areas. Teachers will prepare young learners to be proficient readers and writers, skilled problem solvers, adept communicators and socially responsible citizens through the STEM approach, which equips students with 21st century college, career and citizen-ready skills.
Discovery STEM Academy is part of Newport News Public Schools’ aggressive STEM education initiative that prepares students to take full advantage of STEM opportunities in higher education and career fields by providing students with numerous opportunities to engage in STEM-related learning experiences.
Construction is nearly complete. Take a glimpse at all the school will offer to students by
viewing a video and catch a real-time look at the progress of Discovery STEM Academy with the
work zone camera.