By Nicole Sandler
Northside News

Wonderful things are happening at Lake View Elementary School, even as the school year winds down. A popular and impactful after-school program — the Lake View STEAM clubs — culminated in a showcase of talents and celebration of success May 8. STEAM includes clubs focused on science, technology, engineering, arts and math and has steadily grown over the past three years.

Originally founded by Rachel Deterding, Lake View’s community school resource coordinator, as an after-school club focused on the arts, Deterding recently partnered with Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR) to add new clubs with an emphasis on science and technology. MSCR staff, along with local artists and scientists, serve as instructors and mentors to the students.

The idea behind Lake View’s after-school clubs was sparked by a casual hallway conversation several years ago. “I was talking with our music teacher while observing students transitioning between classes, and I could feel all this untapped energy,” she said. “I thought, if only there was a way to funnel this creative energy into something more productive and beautiful, what might it look like?” 

Deterding acted on her idea. She secured grant funding to build an arts-based club. The goal to add science-based offerings required additional funding, which she achieved. 

After the incorporation of engineering, math and technology to create a true STEAM curriculum, even more students signed up to participate. The program, free of charge to families, now benefits 85 students and includes eight different clubs, each offered once a week. Because the clubs are held after school at Lake View, there are no transportation barriers to students who want to participate. This is especially important to Deterding.

The Lake View STEAM clubs include: Outdoor Learning, designed to let students explore science and the natural world through outdoor play and engineering activities; Adult Role Models in Science, led by a UW-Madison science major, allows students to explore many areas of science; Cultural Connections, for students with a parent who was or is currently incarcerated; Artworking, where students create murals and practice a variety of art techniques; Be an Engineer, offering students a chance to explore the world of building through engineering projects; Spoken Word Poetry, instructing students to write and perform their own poetry; Drum Power, where students learn Afro-Brazilian drumming and dance; and Girls, Inc., designed to teach girls how to be social media savvy and strong women leaders.

There is no doubt in Deterding’s mind that the STEAM clubs are leading to positive outcomes. “Kids are highly engaged, and behavior calls have decreased. We’re finding that kids are learning and living the core values of our school,” she said. “Through STEAM, we’re allowing kids to access learning while providing a safe, productive space in our school.” 

Deterding is excited to share the success of Lake View’s program and encourages all Northside residents interested in getting involved next year — whether through volunteering their time or contributing resources or funds — to please reach out. You can contact her at rdeterding@madison.k12.wi.us.