STEM, STEAM, STREAM, STRAMM...What does this all mean?

In my tenure as a teacher I have seen many changes in education. I suppose that's what sets our profession apart from any other. Teachers are like ballerinas....we do our best work on our toes! Spin, twist, tumble, we do it all. This week I was fortunate enough to be introduced to the "new" but "old"  STEM philosophy. A few teachers and administrators gathered together for a 2 day workshop to learn all about STEM. Basically, STEM is a holistic philosophy of teaching and learning where Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math, are all wrapped up into neat little learning communities. This type of holistic experience offers students the opportunity to create, collaborate, think critically and communicate ideas. The 4 C's (creativity, collaboration, critical thinking and communication) represent the 21st Century Skills needed to thrive in today's world. STEM fluent learners will be sufficiently prepared and ready to soar ahead after school. It is always scary and overwhelming when there is something of value put in front of you, that you know makes sense, but at the same time will cause change. CHANGE, is the "elephant in the room." We know it's there, we know why, but we have to come to terms with it. CHANGE, to some teachers, is scary.  CHANGE to others, can be invigorating. There's something about us losing control of what we have done for so many years. Something that is comfy and safe and warm. Something that works. Why should we fix what is not broken? Well, STEM isn't a FIX and it's really not a complete change, it's an enhancement. Take your best outfit, your slim fitting skirt, your designer shoes, the silk blouse that accentuates your best features; Now add just the perfect necklace and earrings  to complete the look. That's STEM. It takes all of your favorite lessons and ties them together in a cohesive way and layers them with inquiry and 21st century skills. Nothing wrong with that, teachers!!!!

P.S. Action statements from a STEM fluent learner:

I Think.
I Question.
I Design.
I Create.
I Struggle.
I Collaborate.
I Try.
I Solve.
I Invent.
I Reflect.
I LEARN!