When it comes to preparing students for the future, few educational approaches are as impactful as hands-on STEM learning. At EDUPRIZE Gilbert, students aren’t just memorizing formulas or reading from a textbook—they’re building, testing, and exploring real-world science through our unique Cottage program. This project-based curriculum is one of the most distinctive features of our K–12 charter school and a big reason why families in Gilbert are making the switch from traditional or classical education models.
If you’re looking for a school that nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity through immersive experiences, EDUPRIZE’s Cottage STEM program may be exactly what your family is searching for.
What Is the Cottage Program?
At EDUPRIZE Gilbert, the Cottage program serves as the heart of our thematic, hands-on learning model. In each grade, students dive into a series of interdisciplinary “Cottage” themes—multi-week units that explore topics like the human body, the solar system, ecosystems, ancient civilizations, and more.
But this isn’t just a theme for reading or writing. The Cottage unit ties together all subjects—math, science, reading, writing, and art—around a central concept, and is brought to life with STEM labs, hands-on projects, student presentations, and collaborative activities.
Students build models of volcanoes when studying geology. They dissect owl pellets during a unit on food chains. They construct shelters to understand weather and survival. The result? Deeper learning, stronger retention, and a genuine love for exploration.
STEM Starts Early—and Stays Engaging
In many schools, STEM education doesn’t begin until upper elementary or even middle school. At EDUPRIZE Gilbert, we believe it should start in Kindergarten.
From their very first year, students at EDUPRIZE participate in Live Learning Labs and interactive STEM projects that mirror the process scientists and engineers use every day. They hypothesize, test, measure, adjust, and try again—developing real-world problem-solving skills that stick with them far beyond the classroom.
As students move up through the grade levels, the complexity of the projects increases. In upper elementary and middle school, they might build electric circuits, create water filtration systems, or design simple machines. By high school, students are ready to tackle robotics, biotechnology, or advanced science coursework with confidence—because they’ve been “doing science” all along.
Why Project-Based Learning Makes the Difference
Traditional classroom instruction often centers around lectures, worksheets, and testing. While that model works for some learners, many students—especially in the early years—thrive through active learning.
That’s the heart of project-based learning, and why EDUPRIZE’s Cottage program is so powerful.
Instead of memorizing isolated facts, students apply knowledge to real-world challenges. They build, create, and problem-solve as a team. These activities tap into multiple learning styles—visual, kinesthetic, auditory—and help students truly internalize the material.
Project-based learning also helps students develop:
- Collaboration and teamwork skills
- Public speaking and presentation confidence
- Research and inquiry habits
- Real-world connections to science, math, and engineering
This approach is especially valuable for students who may not thrive in a test-heavy or rigid environment. With Cottage learning, students are engaged and empowered—and their excitement shows in their work.
How EDUPRIZE Gilbert Compares to Other Models
Many local schools follow traditional or classical models that rely on teacher-led instruction, direct memorization, and formal assessments. While these methods have merit, they may not resonate with every learner—especially students who crave movement, creativity, or more depth in their studies.
What sets EDUPRIZE Gilbert apart is how we combine academic rigor with creative application. Our students meet and exceed Arizona state standards, but they do so in ways that are meaningful and relevant.
Parents often say they’ve seen their child light up again after switching to EDUPRIZE—because our model encourages questions, welcomes ideas, and fosters a deep love for learning.
STEM for the Future
In today’s world, STEM skills are more important than ever. Careers in science, technology, engineering, and math are growing fast—and employers are looking for problem-solvers, innovators, and collaborative thinkers.
At EDUPRIZE Gilbert, we’re helping students build those skills starting in Kindergarten. Through our Cottage lessons, Live Learning Labs, and STEM-focused enrichment, students develop the foundation they need not just for high school and college—but for careers that haven’t even been invented yet.
Why More Families Are Choosing EDUPRIZE Gilbert
Families from Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Queen Creek, and nearby communities are turning to EDUPRIZE because they want more for their children. They want a school that challenges their kids to think deeply, engage fully, and love learning again.
If you’re looking for a STEM charter school in Gilbert that combines hands-on learning, small class sizes, and a true sense of community, EDUPRIZE Gilbert is a smart, forward-thinking choice.