What It Is
At DeKalb Central Schools, students build the Portrait of a Baron competencies through STEM and Project-Based Learning (PBL) experiences.

• STEM learning integrates science, technology, engineering, and math into hands-on, student-centered units where kids tackle real-world problems.
• Project-Based Learning allows students to master curriculum standards while solving authentic challenges that matter beyond the classroom.
   

Elementary School

• Students engage in science-based PBL units.
• All students attend a computer science special once a week.
• Extracurricular opportunities include the Robotics Team (grades 4–5) and the STEAM Team (grades 1–3).
   

Middle School

• Students experience PBL in every class. Some classes combine traditional lessons with PBL projects, while others (like Humanities, which blends ELA and Social Studies) are fully PBL-based.
• Dedicated computer science/STEM electives are offered.
• Extracurriculars include Robotics and Guitar Club.
   

High School

• Students experience PBL across all subjects, with some classes fully PBL-based and others blending traditional learning with projects.
• A wide range of STEM and computer science electives are available.
• The Baron Manufacturing Academy gives students real-world, hands-on applications of STEM skills.
• STEM-focused extracurriculars like Robotics and eSports.

Why It Matters
Hands-on, authentic learning boosts student engagement and promotes deeper understanding. Research shows PBL improves learning outcomes while helping students strengthen the Portrait of a Baron competencies that prepare them for life after graduation.