217. Lessons for Starting A STEAM Program with K-4 STEAM Teachers from Ladue School District

In this episode, I’m joined by four elementary STEAM teachers who worked together to build a brand-new K–4 STEAM program across their district: Kristina Lodes, Jenny Bradley, Miranda Berry, and Mary Linneman. We’re chatting about what that process actually looked like—from defining their roles and creating a curriculum to working with a budget, using materials they already had, and figuring out how to fit robotics, coding, engineering, makerspace, 3D printing, and more into a meaningful learning experience for students. You’ll also hear about some of the biggest successes they’ve had along the way, including STEM Survival Camp, 3D printing, digital portfolios, and their district-wide STEAM Fest and Recycled Runway. Most importantly, they share how collaboration, having a strong starting point, and being willing to adapt lessons for their own students helped make an overwhelming process feel much more manageable. Whether you’re brand new to teaching STEM or STEAM, helping build a program from scratch, or looking for ways to strengthen the program you already have, this conversation is packed with real-life ideas and encouragement you can use in your own STEM classroom. Resources Mentioned Naomi Meredith’s K-5 STEM Year Long Plan Bundle STEAM T-Shirts that the team is wearing Episode 1 of Elementary STEM Coach Podcast: I’m a new STEM Teacher, what should I focus on? Head to the show notes for a full transcript of this episode, pictures, and all the links: https://naomimeredith.com/episode217 Download my Free K-5 STEM & Teach Year-Long Plan Leave a voice message HERE for the podcast with your questions and comments! TpT Shop: Naomi Meredith | naomimeredith.com/tptshop Course: STEM Teacher 101 Workshops: K-2 STEM Planning 3-5 STEM Planning K-5 STEM Planning Bundle Stellar School-Wide News STEM Career Day Check out more inspiration on her website: naomimeredith.com Connect with her on Instagram: @naomimeredith_ YouTube Channel: Naomi Meredith Facebook Group: The Elementary STEM Coach Community | Technology & STEM for K-6 Teachers Check out my other podcast for kids: The STEM Career Quest