From kindergarten through graduation, CPSD provides students with a continuous pathway of exploration that empowers them to gather evidence, solve complex problems and better understand the world around them. 

The journey begins in elementary school, with an immersive science curriculum that introduces students to the wonders of the natural world. The foundational framework of reading, interactive videos and hands-on labs bring concepts to life. With access to live science materials for classroom observation and study, students have hands-on opportunities to engage with the natural world and develop a deeper curiosity about their surroundings. 

Beyond the classroom, CPSD prioritizes immersive field trips that connect students to their local environment and introduce them to future career paths. All fourth graders participate in a science engineering trip to the Clover Park Technical College mechatronics lab, while fifth graders engage in life science studies during a visit to Lakewold Gardens. These experiences ensure that early curiosity is met with real-world application. 

The focus shifts toward scientific phenomena in middle school through the OpenSciEd curriculum. This approach encourages students to lead with questions, using scientific discussions and student-led labs to find answers. To complement this, Project Lead the Way adds a layer of engineering and design practices, introducing students to the skills prevalent in modern STEAM careers. The middle school experience also emphasizes environmental stewardship as all seventh graders take life science field trips to the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge or Tacoma Nature Center.  

“Field trips like this are important because you get to learn about wildlife and how to protect it, and it’s different than learning in the classroom because here you can see it.” 

Devenady Fleeks 
Lakeview Hope Academy
Fifth Grade Student

The connection to the local ecosystem is further supported by the Salmon in the Classroom grant, where students at nine CPSD schools raise salmon before releasing them into Chambers Creek. 

By the time students reach high school, the “young scientist” mindset is applied to specialized fields. In addition to traditional biology, chemistry and physics, students can challenge themselves with Advanced Placement (AP) science courses. 

The district’s CTE programs offer diverse pathways that bridge the gap between interest and industry. Students can explore fields such as natural resources and ecology, forensic technology, anatomy and physiology, and Core Plus aerospace engineering and manufacturing. 

Students can further explore interests in science through the annual STEAM Fair. This event provides a platform for students to demonstrate problem-solving skills through science and engineering projects. It serves as a community celebration where guests can engage in a variety of interactive activities presented by community partners while learning more about various STEAM-related careers.    

CPSD’s commitment to providing varied science opportunities ensures that students are making meaningful connections between classroom lessons and the world around them. 

At every grade level, our students are developing the evidence-based reasoning and curiosity skills to navigate and shape the future of our district, our community and our environment. 

Learn more about some of the ways CPSD is preparing students to be Future Ready in the late spring issue of Inside Schools.