Dear Hill Country Families,

Wonder is the engine of elementary STEM. Students learn more deeply when they are encouraged to investigate with curiosity, make observations, embrace puzzling questions, and ask, “Why?” In a world created by an intelligent, orderly God, it only makes sense to wonder about and study His creation. Psalm 19:1 declares, “The heavens declare the glory of God.” In Romans 1:20, we learn, “For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.” Both verses describe the wonder of God’s creation.

Elementary STEMfest was designed to engage students in the Four C’s of STEM—communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking—and fuel curiosity through hands-on exploration of science, technology, engineering, and math. As part of our classical Christian education, students are encouraged to slow down and take time to wonder at God’s creation. Through these learning opportunities, students thrive as they ponder, question, and explore.

Our elementary STEM program at Hill Country Christian School encourages students to connect with the world around them while lessons are created to specifically point back to the identity of Christ. Each lesson is designed to engage students through hands-on exploration of science in ways they can understand.

STEM is not about academic rigor. It is about the rigor of encouraging students to ask questions, explore ideas, and experience the joy of learning. Normalizing “I wonder if…” as a response allows students to embrace productive struggle within themselves, grow through challenges, and develop a growth mindset. Storytelling, movement, construction, and technology are elements of our STEM curriculum that allow students to express their thoughts and ideas.

This year’s STEMfest theme was “STEM Around the World.” Mrs. Cheng, our elementary STEM teacher, led the way in creating wonder among our students by bringing well-known structures from around the world to life. Students explored famous landmarks, including pyramids, towers, arches, bridges, and even discovered how robots connect to these structures.

Mrs. Cheng ended the day by bringing the learning full circle with a question: “Who is your foundation built upon?” She explained that these famous landmarks were built with strong foundations and cornerstones, carefully designed by architects to withstand the test of time. She reminded students that all of us must have a strong foundation, built upon Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 3:11). The Bible tells us that Jesus is the Rock upon which we must build our lives. He does not change like shifting sand. He is dependable, reliable and the best foundation for our lives.

At Hill Country Christian School, we not only encourage students to wonder, but we also direct them to the Creator of wonder, Jesus Christ.

Blessings,

Melanie Gilliam, Preschool and Elementary Principal