NASA Explorer School
All students - both those that are zoned for FLE and those that apply and are accepted through the Choice program participate in the NASA Explorer School (NES) magnet.
Our NASA Explorer School Magnet provides an enriched experience for all Forest Lake students. NASA educational resources are seamlessly integrated into all curriculum areas, beginning in Kindergarten. An emphasis on STEAM (Science, Technology, Arts, Engineering & Math) curriculum in the classroom, and related arts classes including Project Lead the Way (PLTW) and NASA Lab support our school-wide NASA focus. Together, we work to increase students’ interest and participation in STEAM with an emphasis on strengthening their ability to apply these concepts and skills in meaningful ways. NASA activities are integrated throughout the year and each school year culminates with an exciting school-wide NASA-themed unit.
Staying true to the original NASA Explorer School goals and objectives, our school provides multiple opportunities for students to:
- Explore STEAM topics in a variety of engaging and interactive NASA contexts.
- Increase student interest and participation in Science, Technology, Arts, Engineering, and Math (STEAM) curricula areas and activities.
- Increase student knowledge of STEAM careers.
- Increase student ability to apply STEAM concepts and skills in meaningful ways.
In addition, we facilitate learning in order to develop 21st century learners that will be able to:
- Participate in activities that allow them to become collaborators, critical and creative thinkers, and effective communicators.
- Allow for student collaboration during daily lessons as well as short and long term projects.
- Increase opportunities for students to think critically through problem-solving and higher Depth of Knowledge level questioning and activities.
- Encourage creative thinking through exploration and problem-solving activities.
- Provide daily opportunities for communication through academic and class community discussions.
A random lottery is used to select ALL magnet students (eLc and NES).
Families may apply for any of the District’s magnet or choice programs during either Choice I or II. These are usually held in December/January and May respectively.
