S.T.E.A.M. Magnet

 Welcome to Taper Avenue S.T.E.A.M Magnet!

Welcome to Taper Avenue STEAM Magnet, where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking thrive! Our innovative program provides students with opportunities to engage in hands-on learning that integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) across the curriculum.

Taper STEAM Magnet is proud to be a recipient of the prestigious Magnet Schools of America (MSA) Award, recognizing our excellence in innovation, academic achievement, and commitment to STEAM education. This award symbolizes our dedication to preparing students for success in school and beyond.

Our Mission

At Taper STEAM Magnet, our mission is simple yet powerful:
To foster a love of learning by providing engaging, challenging opportunities that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

Our curriculum emphasizes:

• Integrating STEAM concepts into all subject areas.
• Providing hands-on learning experiences that encourage students to explore and experiment.
• Preparing students for the future through collaboration, innovation, and discovery.

Our Vision

Taper Avenue Elementary and STEAM Magnet strive to provide a challenging learning environment that enables students to:

• Maximize student potential.
• Be college and career ready.
• Meet the challenges of an ever-changing world.

We believe in empowering students to think critically, act creatively, and become problem-solvers in their communities.

Recognitions and Achievements

Being a recipient of the Magnet Schools of America (MSA) Award is one of Taper’s proudest accomplishments.

Taper STEAM Magnet:

Proud Recipient of the Magnet Schools of America Award for Excellence 2025.

This award reflects the collective efforts of our students, teachers, and community in creating a robust STEAM-focused education that drives innovation and excellence.

Overview of the Taper STEAM Magnet Program

Founded in 2003 as a “school within a school”, Taper STEAM Magnet has grown into a vibrant learning community.

Key Facts

• Class Structure: There are two magnet classes per grade level (K-5)
• Enrollment: You an apply for our school by visiting choices.lausd.net.  Most students join in Kindergarten, additional spots are filled based on availability.
• Collaboration: Teachers in the Magnet program work together to share curriculum and teaching strategies. This collaboration extends to the entire Taper Avenue School, fostering a unified learning environment.

A Comprehensive STEAM Focus

STEAM education at Taper is interdisciplinary, hands-on, and experiential. It’s designed to inspire curiosity and critical thinking while equipping students with skills for the future.

Highlights

• Integration Across Subjects: Lessons combine science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics to create meaningful connections between disciplines.
• Hands-On Activities: Students engage in experiments, design projects, and problem-solving challenges that bring learning to life.

Signature Programs

Taper STEAM Magnet offers a variety of specialized programs and activities that set it apart.

Robotics Program

• Robotics Club: The club meets as schedules allow, giving students opportunities to explore coding, engineering, and technology in a flexible, supportive environment
• Robotics Team: A small group of students may be asked to join our Taper Robotics Team.  Students design, build, and program robots to compete in challenges, learning teamwork and perseverance along the way.

.

NGSS-Aligned Curriculum

• Lessons follow the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), emphasizing inquiry, experimentation, and real-world applications.

Art Integration

• The arts are seamlessly woven into STEAM learning, encouraging students to express creativity through design, painting, and digital media.

Electives

• Opportunities to explore dance, theater, music, and science allow students to develop new skills and discover their passions.

Learning in Action

One of the most exciting aspects of Taper STEAM Magnet is its focus on engaging, real-world lessons.

Featured Lessons

• An Environmental Project (1st Grade)
• This project teaches students about environmental changes, such as rising ocean levels, through interactive activities and media.
• 
• Rising Oceans
• A thought-provoking activity where students explore how climate change impacts the oceans and brainstorm solutions.
• 
  1st Grade: Rising Oceans

A Unique Learning Environment

Taper STEAM Magnet’s facilities and culture create a dynamic, supportive space for exploration and growth.

The STEAM Lab

• A dedicated space for messy experiments and innovative projects.
• Equipped with robotics kits, crickets, and a flexible learning space..

Outdoor Learning Opportunities

• Lessons that incorporate nature and environmental science into the curriculum.

Collaborative Classroom Culture

• Students work together on projects, developing teamwork and communication skills.

Preparing Students for the Future

Taper STEAM Magnet equips students with skills to succeed in an ever-changing world.

Building 21st-Century Skills

Students learn to communicate effectively, think critically, and adapt to new technologies. These are the skills that will serve them in high school, college, and beyond.

Encouraging STEAM Careers

Through its programs, Taper inspires students to pursue careers in STEAM fields. Whether they dream of becoming engineers, scientists, or artists, Taper gives them the foundation to succeed.

Conclusion

Taper STEAM Magnet isn’t just a school—it’s a place where students discover their potential, explore their interests, and prepare for a bright future. With innovative programs, dedicated teachers, and a strong support system, Taper stands out as a model for STEAM education.

We invite you to learn more about Taper STEAM Magnet and join us in supporting our mission to inspire the next generation of innovators and creators. Let’s keep building the future, one project at a time.