Thinking critically, applying universally

Nightingale’s STEM program prepares students to think creatively in the constantly-evolving fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Digital citizenship is the foundation of the computer science curriculum in the Lower and Middle Schools, and Upper School students graduate prepared to think about real-world challenges through a digital lens. Math and science curricula develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and logic skills that can be applied across multiple disciplines and into life after Nightingale.

Lower School

Learning through making

Let’s talk about the weather. In Kindergarten science class, students measure the speed of the wind. With paper cups, straws, and masking tape, they build anemometers in the Makerspace, then head up to the rooftop to count the spin cycles. Students become meteorologists, recording forecasts on camera. Through project-based learning and invention, Nightingale demonstrates the links between applied science and technology that give students an insatiable desire to learn and explore.

They build anemometers in the Makerspace, then head up to the rooftop to count the spin cycles.

From launch to landing

STEM classes are all about problem-solving, and an egg drop challenge has Lower School students thinking on their feet as they design a capsule to protect an egg through the impact of a launch and landing without cracking! Students get hands-on experience to reinforce their classroom lessons as they build, design, and prototype their capsules. Through real problem-solving and a few cracked eggs, students experiment with gravity and its forces.

Through real problem-solving and a few cracked eggs, students experience gravity and its forces.

Middle School

Off to the races!

In Class V’s Nerdy Derby, students build their own model vehicles; then, they’re off to the races! Creative experimentation happens in surplus in the Makerspace through Nightingale’s holistic STEM program. Students navigate complex coding programs, learn design, and experiment with LEDs, digital editing, and website building. Whether laser cutting a Mandala for World Religions or 3D printing a pyramid for geography, every project stays on track with Nightingale’s interdisciplinary curriculum.

Creative experimentation happens in surplus in the Makerspace.

Coding prowess

Through algebra and computer science, students develop coding skills using block-coding platforms, microprocessors, and robotics. They create circuitry design projects and learn how to use 3D modeling applications. As they explore abstract connections, solve real-world problems, and produce mathematical models using regression software, students gain the technical skills that will make them successful 
in Middle School and beyond.

Students gain technical skills that make them successful In Middle School and beyond.

Upper School

Machine learning

Thinking in multiple dimensions is at the heart of a Nightingale education, and becomes essential when it comes to engineering and design. Students re-imagine technology, develop prototypes, and innovate projects with real-world applications. They gain professional know-how by working through challenges in digital fabrication, programming, and electrical engineering. Excellence in engineering and design has given Nightingale students not only a place but a voice in the global maker community.

Nightingale students have both a place and a voice in the global maker community.

Real-world experience

Open to highly skilled, motivated, and dedicated science students in Classes X–XII, the Independent Science Research Program (ISRP) allows students to gain valuable scientific experience within and beyond the blue doors. During the program, students are required to take Science Seminar and Biotechnology, where they develop advanced scientific literacy and communication skills while preparing for internships in research labs. During the summer between Class XI and XII, students participate in primary science research for six to eight weeks, expanding their skillset and knowledge in the field. Learn more.

During the summer between Class XI and XII, ISRP students participate in primary science research for six to eight weeks.