Cogwheel STEAM Workshop

This week we talk about why Art belongs in STEAM and the consequences for removing it.

Brass Bound Bulletin #11: Why Art Isn't the 'Fun Break' From STEAM — It's the Whole Point Every year we hear about how school budgets are getting cut or money meant for public schools is being diverted to private school vouchers (I'll hold my opinion as this is not a political blog.) Or maybe a private school is trying to save money. If funding drops something needs to get cut. Usually t...

or a soldering iron, a wrench, a hammer...

Some students love school because of these classes!

One way or another, the next chapter of Cogwheel STEAM Workshop begins TODAY!

What if the real key to unlocking student potential lies not in drilling test-taking strategies but in reigniting the sparks of creativity and hands-on learning? Adam Savage’s words remind us that education isn’t just about scores—it’s about curiosity, exploration, and genuine engagement. When we bring back programs like band and shop, we’re not just filling schedules; we’re opening doors for students to experience the joy of making, creating, and connecting with subjects in meaningful ways. 🎶🔧

This deeper learning cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving, and a passion for discovery—skills that standardized tests alone can’t measure. It challenges us to reconsider what “success” in education truly looks like and invites us to embrace a more holistic approach where diverse talents and interests are nurtured. The classroom can be a space where imagination meets practical skill, and where students feel empowered to explore, fail, and succeed on their own terms.

As educators, parents, and community members, how do we advocate for these vital programs amid the pressures of testing and accountability? How can we remake our schools into vibrant learning environments that prioritize true knowledge over rote memorization? Let’s open this conversation and envision a future where every child’s potential is honored through rich, varied, and meaningful educational experiences. Share your thoughts below—how have creative or hands-on programs impacted your students or your own learning journey? 🌟

This week's blog is up!

Brass Bound Bulletin #10: Let the Kid Make a Mess! Why Tinkering Is the Best STEAM TeacherThis story is a bit of family lore. A legend, if you will...It's the 1950s. My grandfather, Ed coming home from work. As he is walking into the living room he spies a... concerning scene. My mother Linda, a child herself at the time is sitting on the carport of...

This week's blog post is up! We're talking about music!

Brass Bound Bulletin #9: Your kid's playlist is a math class in disguise Picture this: You are in the kitchen cooking dinner. Your child is there with you and isn't interested in tonight's "science" lesson (see last week's blog.. :) ) Your kid starts drumming on the table. First softly, then loader as they get into it. After a minute you turn to tell them to stop... but....

This week's blog post is up!

Brass Bound Bulletin #8: Your Kitchen is a STEAM Lab (and Dinner is the Experiment) I remember watching Good Eats on the Food Network. Even more than the food and Alton Brown's banter I loved the SCIENCE of it. My nerdy little brain was fascinated by learning about the physics and the chemistry. To this day, when I make pancake batter I stir for 10 seconds and then "walk away. Just...

As much as we'd LOVE for you to visit our website, if you already have Substack you can find us there!

Cogwheel STEAM Workshop | Substack Creating educational STEAM content and workshops for kids ages 7-11. Committed to increasing student engagement, decreasing learning apathy and developing durable skills in kids. Click to read Cogwheel STEAM Workshop on Substack. Launched 16 hours ago.