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STEAM Programs

Classroom of children using computers with the word STEAM (the acronym for science, technology, engineering, art, and math) is on the whiteboard at the front of the room

We are committed to the advancement of STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math – education.  Originally referred to as STEM, "art" has been integrated as a critical design element that helps take advanced conceptual ideas and transforms them into real, usable tools. Our focus on advancing STEAM education encompasses programs for both students and educators. 

Interest in STEAM education is created by providing students with the means to play, create, learn, and invent so that each child’s full potential and interest can be developed in these areas of study.

Bucks IU Fab Lab

An energy efficient light bulb surrounded by the words FAB LAB Powered by the Bucks IU

We are very excited to be able to bring STEAM education directly to the students of Bucks County with our Mobile Fab Lab (Fabrication Laboratory) and to offer a wide variety of events and activities at our Fab Lab Center.  Click Here for Fab Lab Programs and Information.

STEM Design Challenge

STEM Design Challenge written out with icons representing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.

Join the STEM Design Challenge, an exciting engineering competition for students in grades 4–8! In teams of 2 to 4, you’ll put your creativity and problem-solving skills to the test as you tackle a real-world challenge. Using K’Nex, and/or Engino, you’ll design and build a one-of-a-kind project, craft a Design Notebook, and draw up your team’s blueprint.

Bring your best ideas—because the top team at the regional event will earn a spot at the state competition in May! It’s hands-on STEM fun with big-time bragging rights on the line!

Click Here for The 2026 STEM Design Challenge Details

For questions regarding the STEM Design Challenge, please email STEAM@BucksIU.org.

MADCom

MADCOM MS logo winner 2026 - liberty bel with computer mouse

The PA Media And Design Competition (MADCom) is an annual event that highlights Pennsylvania students’ application skills, creativity and knowledge. This Media And Design Competition is for middle and high school students and allows them to unleash their creativity, convey information dynamically, apply state standards, and collaborate to create innovative projects that feature their application skills and computer knowledge. Categories include Graphic Design and Logo, Digital Movie, Website Design, Programming, and 3D Design and Animation. The Bucks IU will facilitate the competition at the local level with winners advancing to the state competition.

Details on this competition and how schools can register can be found here: Click here to go to the state website for the PA Media And Design Competition. Online submissions open on January 5th and close on March 7th.  

PA Invention Convention

PA Invention Convention - Start Inventing
Creativity, critical thinking, innovation, teamwork, and communication skills are recognized as the skills that prepare students for increasingly complex school, work, and life environments. The Pennsylvania Invention Convention gives students (K-12) recognition for creating inventions to solve real world problems.  For details on the PA Invention Convention program and to register, click here.

Keystone STEM Competition

PA Keystone Competition STEM

This is a FREE, one-day statewide STEM challenge for students in grades 5-12! No prep required—just bring your creativity and problem-solving skills. Work in teams up to 5 students to tackle a real-world challenge, design innovative solutions, and showcase your ideas. It’s a hands-on, fun experience with no barriers to participation—get ready to innovate and inspire!

  • Hackathon format – January 15, 2026, at the Fab Lab. (Snow date: February 5)
  • The challenge will be announced the day of the event.
  • All materials will be provided.
  • Students do not need to prep but should be familiar with the engineering design process.
  • Two grade bands: 7-8 and 9-12 with students competing in teams of 4-5.
  • Registration opens November 7 (link will be emailed and posted here).

Click here for more from the PA Keystone Competition website. 

Educator STEAM Programs

As we continue to add to our STEAM programs for students, the Bucks IU also ensures that our county educators have access to knowledge and tools that will allow them to successfully drive student interest and advancement.    

PA SEED Ecosystem - A collaboration with the PA Department of Education (PDE) and Bucks,

PA Seed Ecosystem with hand holding seedling

Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery County IUs, PA SEED provides the architecture for cross-sector STEAM education.  It harnesses contributions from schools, out-of-school programs, STEAM expert institutions (e.g. science centers), the private sector, and community-based organizations into a symbiosis providing unique STEAM education opportunities.

Customizable Curriculum Support and Program Quality Reviews - The Bucks IU STEAM team can provide assistance with the development and review of programs and curriculums designed to best address specific STEAM area(s) of study.  The objective is to support districts, teachers, and schools so that they may best achieve their STEAM goals. 

Advisory Councils -The STEAM Leadership Council serves as the county-wide leadership arm of the regional PA SEED Ecosystem and includes representatives from K-12 public and nonpublic schools, workforce partners, STEAM learning organizations, and community organizations.  There are also advisory council groups for each individual content area of STEAM who come together to collaborate, network, and receive of-the-moment professional learning. 

Professional Learning - We educate the educator with programs that include coding, best practices in visual arts, math, science, teaching and learning, elementary engineering programs, and

Engineering is Elementary logo with text and EIE in an orange boxSTEAM integration.  The Bucks IU is a certified provider of Engineering is Elementary (EIE) Professional Development.