Birchwood STEAM and Career Academy integrates project-based learning and career-based learning experiences for students in grades 6-12.
Project-Based Learning (PBL): Students learn through the creation of a project. PBL offers students the ability to customize their learning to their interests, needs, and goals through real-world and hands-on projects.
Career-Based Learning Experiences (CBLEs): Students will participate in work-related experiences and opportunities designed to increase career readiness and explore various careers. The experiences include job shadowing, work-based learning, worksite visits, guest speakers, career related projects, operating student-run businesses, and much more!
STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) incorporates multiple disciplines into solving real-world problems through the creation of projects. Students will learn the design process, 21st-century skills, soft skills, and technical skills. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills encourage students to assess and find solutions to problems increasing their employability and independence.
Service Learning: Students will have the opportunity to fulfill a need in the community through completing a project. Servant leadership will strengthen the student's relationship with the local community, resulting in a better sense of self and satisfaction from making a positive change someone's life.
BSCA Provides Students:
- A low teacher to student ratio: 1:15
- Student-driven curriculum
- A flexible timeframe for study
- Hands-on learning experiences
- Individualized project learning
- Student created PLP's*
- A technology rich environment
- Personal space
BSCA Students:
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Become life-long learners
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Are effective communicators
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Are problem solvers
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Are active in the community
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Manage time and resources effectively
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Attain a well rounded education
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Have choice and voice
*PLP: Personal Learning Plan
Students and parents/guardians work with a BSCA advisor to design an individualized curriculum each year that is project based in nature and may utilize virtual or face-to-face courses, mentorships, field experiences or other one-of-a-kind experiences. All projects and learning experiences are aligned with the Wisconsin Model Academic Standards as well as the skills and habits of mind introduced in the
Framework for 21st Century Learning