ATWOOD, Ill. (WAND)-- Making sure that STEM education is accessible and fun for elementary school students at Arthur Lovington Atwood Hammond Grade School. The school is welcoming their students into their STEM lab, where they are able to grow academically and personally.

Christopher Forman, the Principal of ALAH Grade School, says, "I've seen kids who are normally disengaged in the classroom but when they're here they are so excited to be in here and the possibilities of things they can do."

Students have the opportunity to explore and try new things in an interactive environment. There is a wide variety of topics that are taught in the STEM lab to the students, so they are able to find their passions. 

"They get to come in here and not just learn science facts they get to explore technology and science in a different way. Hands on learning."

The students are currently working on cardboard projects, but thanks to the hard work of the school's administrators the possibilities are endless. The students also are able to work with things like drones, 3-D printers, and even Legos to learn more about STEM concepts, but one of the most important skills they are learning is teamwork. 

Amanda Romine, the Director of Student Services and Technology, says, "Communication, building their communication skills, critical thinking that's a big part of the STEM process and the other key is collaboration."

Having a STEM lab for students to explore in is generating excitement for kids when it comes to being in the classroom. 

"They seem to be very excited to come, they look forward to Friday's that they're in here using the STEM lab and participating in different activities."

The impression that these lessons are making on students are long lasting and they will be able to use the skills they are learning as they finish their years of school and move into their future careers.

"I think it's going to impact them for years to come because we're going to see a lot of kids who are going into careers in STEM related industries using the knowledge that they get here for their jobs in the future."

ALAH Grade School has been providing STEM education to their students in their lab for three years now. 

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