STEM vs. STEAM

Our District (Bozeman Public Schools, MT) has recently launched a STEM initiative for our K-5 classrooms.  The initiative includes teacher training and equipment.  We started with training a small group of teachers (16) who will become trainers in the coming years for the rest of our staff (200).  We are using Project Lead the Way as a curriculum/training partner.

One question that keeps coming up is STEM vs. STEAM.  While I don't disagree that art is equally as important as the other topic areas, some of our community donors are troubled with the addition of art into the discussion.  I wanted to be very clear with our business partners and it seems that the addition of art confused the issue.

We are approaching STEM as a way to teach our student critical thinking and problem solving skills.  I do see art (design and creativity) as critical elements of problem solving.  So I understand why some would want to include art as an essential component of this important initiative.

I would be curious to know other perspectives regarding STEM vs. STEAM

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