The Seeley Lake Elementary School Board voted on Nov. 18 to eliminate the Friday STEAM, or Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, program effective Dec. 1.
The program, which is designed to add extra optional science and math instruction part of the 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant program, had seen low attendance since the elementary school switched to a four-day school week this year. One concern of families as the school transitioned to four days was a reduction in childcare, lunch and educational advancement opportunities on that fifth day. School Board Chair Doc Welter said on average there were four students who attended Friday STEAM, which at SLE was a half-day program.
The reduction of STEAM on Fridays will also end busing and lunch. Students will still be able to receive extra help with schoolwork on Fridays if desired. And, the after-school STEAM program will continue. Welter said the after school days are fairly well attended, with 15 to 25 students making use of the program each afternoon.
Seeley Lake Elementary School Superintendent and Principal Christina Hartmann said when it comes time to make the school calendar for next year, if parents want the Friday STEAM program back, the district can consider it again.
“This year, it’s just not feasible for the number of kids we’re seeing,” Hartmann said.
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