On March 20th, 3 elementary teams and 2 middle school teams from Notre Dame School competed with more than 100 teams from area schools in the DCIU's STEM challenge. Students in grades 4 to 8 have worked in teams since January to prepare for this year's challenge.



K’NEX is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program where students work in teams of 4 to design and build a project with a specific problem to be solved.  They compete against other schools in Delaware County and the top team from each age group, grades 4-5 and grades 6-8, move on to a state competition in Harrisburg.

The students use problem-solving skills, teamwork, and leadership skills to create their design.  They must create blueprints, keep a journal and account for every piece of K’NEX they use. Older students must create a budget for their design. Students have been observed not only working on their design, but also brainstorming and helping other groups solve problems they may be having. All groups interact with each other giving both the older and younger students confidence in their abilities. Through this program, students also learn how overcoming obstacles is a stepping stone to finishing any project.

Photos: STEM Photo Album