Science & Technology
Lamplighter’s science program encourages students to problem-solve, ask thoughtful questions, and explore big ideas, both collaboratively and independently.
Each grade level participates in two distinct science classes, providing depth and variety in their learning experiences. All students, from Pre-K through fourth grade, take both a general science class and an Environmental Science class as part of the six-day rotation of special area classes.
Science classes are housed in the Eastin Family Innovation Lab, the School’s hub for hands-on, inquiry-based learning. The facility features two large science classrooms, a dedicated Environmental Science classroom, a teaching kitchen, a project room, and a woodworking studio. Filled with natural light and offering direct access to outdoor teaching porches, the space seamlessly connects indoor exploration with the natural world.
Early Childhood Science
Pre-K, Kindergarten, and T1
Early Childhood Science nurtures students’ natural curiosity about the physical world, encouraging them to observe patterns, ask questions, and develop new perspectives about how the world works.
In Pre-K, students explore foundational topics such as colors, trees, fabrics, rocks, and forces, culminating the year with a hands-on Farmer’s Market project.
Kindergarten students build on this foundation by incorporating technology into their research. Areas of study include trees, rocks, space, dinosaurs, and animals.
Transitional First Grade (T1) science focuses on Earth science concepts, including the structure of the Earth, rocks and the rock cycle, and soil.
Lower School Science
Grades 1 - 4
Lower School science classes are designed to be exploratory, experiential, and rooted in real-world application. Students discover what it means to think and work like scientists, coders, and engineers as they engage in hands-on investigations and collaborative problem-solving.
Students grow edible plants in hydroponic towers while studying plant development, experiment with the physics of floating and sinking, explore astronomy, investigate the properties of matter, design and launch rockets, and examine human body systems with a focus on digestion and nutrition.
Technology and engineering are integrated throughout the curriculum. Students may engage in coding, robotics, and drone exploration, as well as 3D computer-assisted design (CAD), 3D printing, and vinyl cutting, building both technical skills and creative confidence.
Environmental Science
Pre-K through fourth grade
Environmental Science classes introduce students to the interconnected systems of our planet and cultivate a sense of responsibility for caring for the natural world. Throughout the program, students explore the four essential components that support life on Earth: air, water, the physical Earth (including rocks and soil), and living organisms, plants and animals alike.
Many lessons take place outdoors, making full use of Lamplighter’s gardens, greenhouse, Blackland prairie, nature path, creek, and bird observation area. These hands-on experiences allow students to observe ecosystems in action while developing a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship.
Partnerships
Lamplighter’s science program is strengthened through strategic partnerships with leading Dallas institutions, including the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, and Southern Methodist University.
Lamplighter science faculty collaborate with educators from these organizations to bring dynamic enrichment experiences directly to campus. For example, Perot Museum educators may guide fourth graders through a sheep heart dissection, while Dallas Arboretum educators lead gardening and cooking lessons for Kindergarten students.
Each year, the science faculty also hosts a Family STEM Night, showcasing partner organizations and offering hands-on learning stations for students and parents. Kindergarten families participate in a special Night at the Museum, exploring the Perot Museum after hours together.
Learn more about Lamplighter’s strategic partnerships here.
Learn more about Lamplighter's annual STEM Night.
Learning with Technology
Technology is used as a purposeful tool to support digital creativity, research, coding, and a wide range of academic pursuits.
