South school briefs: Elementaries to focus on science and math

Elementaries to focus on science and mathPrior Lake-Savage schools will adopt an interdisciplinary elementary school curriculum centered on science and math, with a focus on problem-solving skills, teamwork and creativity.

The school board approved a proposal for the Environmental Science Technology Engineering and Math (E-STEM) curriculum earlier this month. A district committee recommended the approach after a year-long study and suggested it be phased in over three to five years.

The district said it will be the first in Minnesota to adopt E-STEM in all its elementary schools. Prior Lake already emphasizes environmental education from early childhood through high school.

Foundation sets scholarships recordThe Eagan Foundation is awarding a record 93 scholarships worth $74,100 to high school seniors who plan to continue their studies at a technical school, college or university.

Recipients represent seven high schools and include one student who is home-schooled. Eagan residents or students attending Eagan High School are eligible for the annual awards.

With financial backing from area individuals, businesses and organizations, the foundation has awarded more than 1,000 scholarships worth $885,000 in its 21-year history.

Kids to get chance to explore big rigsKids will have a chance to explore fire trucks, semitrailer trucks and other big machines next month at Henry Sibley High School.

The event is free and no registration is required. Sponsors are the West St. Paul-Mendota Heights-Eagan school district's Early Learning Program parent advisory council and Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation.

Students to show knowledge of Indian histort and cultureMendota Elementary School students who studied American Indian history, culture and art will show off their knowledge at two upcoming open houses.

The children's work will be on display from 5 to 7 p.m. May 31 and June 5 at the school, 1979 Summit Lane, Mendota Heights.

iPad initiative gets the go-aheadThe Farmington school board has approved the first step in a four-step process intended to get an iPad, Apple's popular tablet computer, into the hands of every school child.

The district was to acquire 630 iPads, plus chargers and other equipment, for about $304,000 under terms of a lease presented to the school board last week.

Seniors earn trip to National Youth Science CampBurnsville High School seniors Carissa Kloncz and Ryan Pinkalla will represent Minnesota at the National Youth Science Camp this summer in West Virginia.

Two students are selected each year from each state to attend the camp. Students are evaluated on their interest in the sciences, academic achievement and leadership.

Kloncz' application focused on her study of using agricultural crop waste to produce energy. Pinkalla studied deer management strategies. Camp information: 2012.nysc.org.