Technology & STEAM

NNM's Innovation Building

Students in the NNM Innovation Space

This two-story, 5,000-square-foot building blends the school’s Montessori philosophy of education with some of the latest thinking in science, technology, and the arts. Students of Near North have access to studios for work in textiles, art, drama, recording, video and sound production as well as a technology and robotics lab, and a woodworking shop. In addition, the rooftop is home to a garden and fruiting trees — part of the school’s “urban farm to table” program, and one of the largest rooftop gardens in the city.

The Tools to Innovate

Near North's Technology programs nurture collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity. NNM's dynamic technology lab provides a space for students at every level to create, invent, and learn—both during the school day and in specialized afterschool programs. Programs highlight computer and media basics, keyboarding, digital citizenship, coding, robotics, 3D printing, and animation.

Near North Montessori expects that our graduates will be familiar with modern learning technologies and able to harness their power to problem-solve and pursue knowledge throughout their lives. We offer 9–12 and 12–14 students learning opportunities to use computers, iPads, digital devices, and the Internet to facilitate learning, communication, collaboration and global awareness.

The 9-12 and 12-14 classrooms are well equipped with MacBooks and iPads for student use, and technology is embedded within other curricular areas—social science, language arts, mathematics, and science.

STEAM Curriculum

Integrated throughout the school and in specific learning labs, Near North embraces technology and problem-based investigation, which prepares our graduates for problem-solving. Our students eagerly explore the physical world, hypothesize outcomes, test assumptions, and communicate results with their peers.

Mathematics and Science study begins in early childhood classes using tactile Montessori materials that precede more complex concepts—and are often referred to in later years. Elegant in its design, and comprehensive in its connections, NNM's curriculum provides students with an understanding of the world around them.

Find out more at STEM @ NNM.