PBL + STEM/STEAM

Learning in Illinois

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Meet learning objectives

Fulfill Statewide Goals in IL

By prioritizing equity in P-12 education, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) strives for a near future in which all Illinois communities are economically and socially secure. To achieve this vision by 2032, the ISBE has devised a strategic plan designed to support districts and schools as they:   

  • Accelerate student learning
  • Improve learning conditions for all
  • Elevate educators with relevant training opportunities 

In the classroom, meeting these goals can look like a number of things: a previously disengaged middle school student discovering wonder in robotics; an undersupported teacher finding new ways to spark excitement through technology; a college-bound senior connecting her career goals to a community water quality project. 

SmartLab Learning is designed to serve entire school ecosystems by connecting core STEM concepts to real-life applications—in Illinois and beyond.

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Ignite Possibilities Through STEM

The ISBE’s specific academic goals address student literacy, STEM concepts, and post-secondary readiness. They also provide a roadmap for Illinois schools as they develop their curricula and allocate federal, state, and private funding

SmartLab Learning aligns with the ISBE’s goals for school communities by supporting both the academic and social-emotional needs of all students and educators through collaborative programming and ongoing professional development. 

  • Authentic Learning Engagements: Nearly every educator has heard it: “Why do we need to learn this?” In the SmartLab, students of all abilities grow to understand why and how core STEM concepts matter. | Learn More
  • Building 21st Century Skills: Essential life skills like critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and time management are built into every SmartLab Learning engagement. | Learn More 
  • Teaching the Whole Child: Students are more than their grades. Besides reinforcing core academic concepts, SmartLab Learning encourages and enables all students to connect their education to the world around them. | Learn More 
  • Ongoing Facilitator Training: Educators and SmartLab facilitators are prepared to guide students through learning engagements on Day One, and can access resources and support whenever they need them. | Learn More
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smartlab Standards Alignment

Prepare All Learners for Academic Success

SmartLab STEM/STEAM Learning Solutions are in 70% or higher alignment with the following nationwide and state-specific standards:

  • New Illinois Learning Standards Incorporating the Common Core: Learners apply mathematical concepts to solve problems they can see and feel. | Learn More
  • Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS): In alignment with the NGSS’ new vision for science education, project-based SmartLab Learning engagements bring core science concepts to three-dimensional life. | Learn More
  • International Society for Technology in Education Standards: Empowered with access to innovative tools—and the agency to explore their applications—students grow into their roles as digital citizens. | Learn More

SmartLab Learning in Illinois

See which Illinois schools and districts have implemented SmartLab Learning solutions.

Discover Your Funding Options

The Creative Learning Systems team has helped public, private, rural, urban, large, and small schools secure funding.

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ESSER for Public Schools

Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund

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EANS for Private Schools

Emergency Assistance to Non-Public Schools

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Private Donors

Discover organizations committed to equitable learning opportunities.

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Funding Through Grants

See Available Grants

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eBook

Maximize ESSER Funding to Engage Students

Learn what to prioritize when applying for ESSER funding.

Learn More About ESSER for Public Schools
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Connect

EANS Funding Can Support STEM Programs

Talk to a CLS Regional Sales Manager to learn how your private school can access the right funds.

Let’s Talk
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Our Partners

Equitable STEM Programming Made Possible

Meet the private donors working to make SmartLab Learning accessible to all.

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Grants

Explore Active Grant Opportunities

You don’t have to go it alone — the CLS team can help you with the grant search and application process.

Hear From Our Happy Clients

Dr. Fred Laudadio

“The statement ‘If you build it, they will come,’ proved to be 100% true. Since opening these amazing learning environments, we have expanded our offerings to before-school clubs, after-school competition teams, and STEM/STEAM-based summer camps for students inside and outside our learning community.”

Dr. Fred Laudadio
Executive Director of Learning and Technology
Shelly Marks

“I’ve never been so excited by anything we decided to do. It offers a whole new level of engagement.”

Shelly Marks
District 153 School Board President

Find Out More About
SmartLab Learning

Success Stories

Browse Client Case
Studies & Testimonials

Who We Help

SmartLab Learning
Benefits Everyone

Our Process

We Offer Comprehensive Solutions

Ready to bring SmartLab Learning to your school?

We’re excited to hear from you. Let’s change the way your students engage with math and science—in and outside the classroom.