Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) opened a new, hands-on technology learning space at Bucknell Elementary School in Alexandria, Va., for countywide field trips that introduce students as young as kindergarten to real-world engineering and technology.
The district said the Bucknell STEAM Innovation Lab – developed in partnership with Virginia Tech’s Thinkabit Lab – will benefit thousands of FCPS students.
Two dedicated classrooms will host invention-focused lessons aligned with the engineering design process, “welcoming our youngest learners to explore hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM),” the district said
Bucknell students will use the space on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, while Tuesdays and Thursdays are reserved for field trips from other FCPS schools.
FCPS said field trips began in early October and will continue through the school year.
“‘I was really excited when it was brought to us that Bucknell could be a host for it because I was able to see the magic that happens in that space,’” Bucknell Principal Rashida Green said. “‘Being able to see kids’ exposure to careers, engineering, and honestly, just the critical thinking and collaboration that happens in that space.”
According to FCPS staff leading the program, early exposure is intended to support the gradual development of practical skills. Familiarity with a variety of career fields may help students make more informed choices about electives and career pathways starting in sixth grade.
Program activities include technology such as 3D printing and microcontrollers, which are small computers on a single chip that controls specific tasks within an electronic system.
