April 16, 2019

I traveled to the United Arab Emirates this month with teacher leaders from across the world. The Ministry of Education in the UAE has identified an initiative to incorporate STREAM (science, technology, reading, engineering, art, mathematics) into all K-12 classrooms. 
 
Our team had the privilege of working with teachers in the Emirate of Fujairah, just a few hours from Dubai, on this trip. Our goals for this week included developing a belief that STREAM integration is possible for all teachers and students, focusing on STREAM as a shift in teaching, expanding knowledge of Growth Mindset, and developing a deep understanding of Design Thinking.
 
STREAM integration helps shift the focus in school from content and grades to skills, processes and passions. It was such a joy to work with these teachers who are committed to helping their students be prepared to solve complex problems, communicate effectively and collaborate in a variety of meaningful ways.


Laura Chang is Michigan’s Teacher of the Year for 2018-19, and Meemic is proud to partner with the Michigan Department of Education for the program. Laura is entering her nineteenth year of teaching at Sunset Lake Elementary in Vicksburg Community Schools, where she is currently a K-5 interventionist. The opinions expressed in this blog are Laura Chang’s and not necessarily those of Meemic Insurance Company.