STEAM Education at BUGS
BUGS innovative approach to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education offers strong preparation for high school with accelerated Biology in 8th grade and all students take the Regents Exam and dual focus on Math 8 and Algebra to prepare for the Algebra I Regents.
STEAM at BUGS is grounded in hands-on learning and real world problem solving of issues relevant to students’ lives. Students explore grade-level themes of food systems, water stewardship, and sustainable urban design across the curriculum in the classroom and on monthly Field Studies. This interdisciplinary approach also embeds arts and design to foster critical thinking risk-taking, and analytical skills. Students are empowered to become creative and compassionate changemakers prepared to excel in high school and build a future where all living systems can thrive.
6th grade students complete lab work to explore energy transformation.
Our dedicated math teachers provide individualized support to prepare students for high school.
Math
Problem-based curriculum that builds on students’ curiosity and authentically builds numeracy. 8th grade has dual focus on Math 8 and Algebra to prepare students for the Algebra I Regents and establish solid foundation for high school level math.
Take a peek into the learning with the following grade-level syllabi:
Students engage in monthly field studies to apply their classroom learning in the real-world.
Sustainable Design
Apply interdisciplinary learning in project-based, place-based, and real-world problem-solving projects in our community. Culminates with 8th graders collaborating to design their own climate-resilient space.
Grade level focus:
ARts & Enrichment
At BUGS, enrichment classes cultivate well-rounded students. Technology classes foster digital literacy and creative problem-solving through hands-on projects, while CAPA explores the performing arts, emphasizing character development and storytelling. Our fitness program promotes lifelong health through diverse activities, teaching students about physical well-being and the joy of movement.
Graphic Design/Computer Science
Our Technology Enrichment classes empower students to become digitally fluent creators. In 6th grade studens master Google Suite, graphic design basics, and build website portfolios, while 7th graders to refine design skills, create sustainability portfolios, and explore 3D printing for real-world problem-solving. Beyond these classes, BUGS integrates technology across all subjects, fostering coding, robotics, and innovative project-based learning.
Creative & Performing Arts (CAPA)
CAPA is an exploration of elements of the creative and performing arts that artists use to design and develop a production or project, including:
Finding inspiration
Creating a story and its characters from that inspiration
Discovering how these characters move, speak, sing, and see the world around them
Physical Education & Health
Our program is designed to develop the mental, emotional, physical, and social skills to promote lifelong fitness. Students learn and have fun playing sports, aerobic fitness, muscular fitness, and even a little Yoga. They gain an understanding of the effects of physical activity, both positive and negative, develop a better understanding of healthy living practices, have fun and get exercise!