‘Spark Experience’ at Sky Oaks gives students a glimpse into the world of engineering and construction

In December, as part of their Advanced Learning class, third-grade students had the opportunity to learn about transportation planning, design and construction, and construct bridges with the help of the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).

All students in District 191 elementary schools receive Pathways push-in lessons in Advanced Learning classes. Currently, students are exploring inventor-thinking. Classes have been practicing using inventor-thinking to develop new and different ideas. Engineering is a big part of inventor-thinking and ties in with MnDOT’s “Bridge UP!” curriculum, which uses bridge design and construction to teach science and math principles.

After learning about MnDOT’s role in planning, designing, constructing and maintaining Minnesota’s roads, bridges, ports, waterways, sidewalks, trails and more, students broke into groups to build their bridges. Each student was assigned a role — project manager, assistant project manager, builder, safety inspector or parts supplier. Monitored by Sky Oaks staff, students worked cooperatively to assemble their bridges. After a final inspection to ensure the bridge was safe to cross, students crawled across it, feeling accomplished in their engineering work! 

"Through the 'Bridge Up' program, offered by MnDOT and facilitated by their ambassadors, our 3rd grade students were able to get hands-on experience in engineering that supports our Pathways program,” said Mandi Jensen, Advanced Learning Specialist. “It was so exciting to see students engaged in problem solving and learning, which resulted in them crawling through the bridge that they built with their own hands! Not only did this experience spark wonder, but it grew leaders and planted seeds of what is to come for our students in the future."

Advanced Learning is a valued part of the One91 learning experience, and is guided by our commitment to equity, access and rigor. Advanced Learning services for grades 2-5 are available and consistent at each elementary school.

Elementary Pathways

Pathways in elementary school sparks curiosity and wonder in our Preschool–Grade 5 students. Students discover a world of possibilities through rich learning experiences in our four career fields. 

• Arts, Communications and Literacy
• Design, Engineering and STEM
• Health, Wellness and Social-Emotional Learning
• Entrepreneurship

Elementary Pathways is designed to excite students and give them a glimpse into their future. It encourages them to wonder and reflect on what’s next in their learning journey. Elementary Pathways learning is not tracking students and asking them to choose a career path. Rather, Pathways aims to introduce elementary students to different experiences to spark curiosity, wonder and a love of learning.