Issue link: http://pefpages.uberflip.com/i/1135231
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) is every where in the world around us and pervades every aspect of our lives. A STEM-based education offers hands-on learning experiences with real-world applica- tions, which help to develop creativity and other 21st century skills. This is why PEF funds STEM programs at every school for 4th-12th graders. We are fortunate to have nationally recognized and award-winning STEM programs at both Palos Verdes high schools – Palos Verdes Peninsula High's SMERT program and Palos Verdes High School's PVIT program. Students obtain invaluable skills and knowl- edge by solving practical problems, while being men- tored by award-winning teachers and some of the top engineers in our community. Students can choose to build an electric vehicle, fab- ricate an underwater robot for marine exploration, program an autonomous ground vehicle guided only by sensors and GPS, optimize a solar-powered boat for racing, or design autonomous quadcopters for search and rescue missions, among many other amazing things. Our elementary school students build remote con- trolled robots with VEX kits and learn basic computer coding. In middle school, students can take STEM foundation courses as electives where they can learn the basics of design and modeling, mechanical systems, building, coding and operating robots to solve prob- lems, as well as learning the rich history of aerospace through hands-on activities, research and experiments. 7 Benefits of STEM Education 1. Fosters creativity and ingenuity 2. Teaches critical thinking 3. Encourages experimentation 4. Builds resilience 5. Teaches collaboration and teamwork 6. Encourages adaption 7. Teaches how to fail STEM TEACHES 21ST CENTURY SKILLS Your donations to PEF help our students develop intellectual curiosity and foster a lifelong love of learning.