The Agnes Irwin School’s STEM curriculum challenges students to design, build, code, and discover, whether programming robots, developing apps, or conducting original research in our labs. They gain technical skills, sharpen their analytical thinking, and learn to trust their ideas.
In Lower School, students build a foundation in computer science through projects that integrate coding, engineering, and design across subjects. From screen-free computational thinking in PreK to 3D printing spiders, programming robots, and coding video games in K-4th, each grade level offers creative experiences that spark curiosity and innovation.
Every girl in grades 5th-8th takes required computer science courses that build fluency in coding, robotics, and design thinking. Beginning in 20252026, the program will expand to offer computer science one quarter per year, making it one of the most comprehensive among peer schools. Through project-based learning, students explore tech applications ranging from programming in Python and JavaScript to engineering with robotics and creating digital storytelling projects. The curriculum also addresses emerging topics such as AI, cybersecurity, and digital ethics.
Upper School offers a rigorous, elective-based program that equips students with advanced technical skills and problem-solving experience. In Computer Science I, students build a foundation in Python and develop original video games as capstone projects. Computer Science II introduces full-stack web development using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, and database design study while Computer Science III Honors: Advanced Topics challenges students with complex software engineering and applications. Students also engage in interdisciplinary STEAM coursework and may explore advanced topics through Chaotic Dynamical Systems, Media Arts, and Astrophysics.
Our Middle Schoolers explore robotics through projects that fuel creativity and innovation. Fifth graders participate in the FIRST Lego League (FLL), a global robotics competition where teams design, build, and program LEGO robots to complete tasks while solving challenges. They also conduct an annual Robot Petting Zoo, a fun and interactive project where students design robotic pets that respond to touch with movements like wagging a tail or trunk. In this capstone project, students program LED lights, servo motors, and sensors, while learning about inputs, outputs, conditionals, and loops through the engineering design process.
Our iWonder Lab fosters creativity, problemsolving, and hands-on learning from an early age. In 3rd grade, students begin exploring robotics using K’Nex, building upon their foundation in design and engineering. The popular Robotics Club is open to 3rd and 4th graders, where students further develop critical thinking, collaboration, and an enthusiasm for STEM.
Our Upper School robotics team, Femme Tech Fatale (Team #709), is one of just three local all-girls teams in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) league. Since Agnes Irwin robotics’ program founding 26 years ago, the team has grown alongside the FRC, which now includes over 4,000 teams worldwide. Students engage in all aspects of robot design, including construction, wiring, coding, and 3D modeling, contributing to the creation of a largescale robot to compete in regional and district competitions. Robotics is offered as a winter “sport,” with students meeting five times a week to collaborate and apply the engineering design process.
In the Lower School, engineering is introduced in the annual Kindergarten Invention Convention, where students design and create prototypes of novel inventions using fundamental engineering principles. Students often design pretend robots, considering how different parts would function together. Students in 3rd grade use K’Nex to engineer configurations and follow challenge prompts, applying critical thinking and design skills.
Middle School students build a foundation in engineering through the exploration of the engineering design process. In science, students study simple machines, applying their understanding to design and create functional models that demonstrate mechanical principles. As they progress, students develop problemsolving skills and gain a deeper understanding of how engineering impacts the world around them.
Our Level I Engineering courses build a foundation in technical drawing and computer-aided design, helping students develop essential skills in visual communication and 3D modeling. Hands-on projects, such as creating a functional toy, foster problem-solving and innovation. Advanced CAD and Mechatronics are year-long Level II Engineering courses that offer in-depth exploration and specialized training for students pursuing higher-level study in the field.
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STEVE GRABANIA
Upper School Science and Computer Science
• Temple University
• B.S., M.Ed. Science Education, Ph.D. Chemistry
JAMES MATHISEN
Science Department Chair
• Purdue University
• Villanova University
• Robotics Coordinator (K-12)
• US FIRST Robotics Coach
ASHLEY POWERS
Middle School Computer Science & STEAM Studio Specialist
• Duquesne University, MS in Instructional Technology
• Grove City College, BS in Elementary Education
• Computer Science Teacher and Technology Integrator, The Nightingale-Bamford School
• Digital Learning Teacher and Assistant EdTech Coordinator, Leman Manhattan Preparatory School
MARY-TYLER UPSHAW
Lower School STEAM Specialist
• Shenandoah Conservatory
• Salisbury University
• Harvard Graduate School of Education
• LS & MS Robotics Coach
• Faculty for Mid-Atlantic Consortium & Salisbury University
• Published in Instructables
Upper School mathematics curriculum includes Accelerated and Honors levels in Precalculus, Calculus, and Statistics and Probability.