Motivate students to explore STEAM opportunities

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Welcome to Winchester STARBASE

Where STEAM Education Transcends the Classroom

DoD STARBASE is a Department of Defense sponsored STEAM enrichment program that brings hands-on, standards-aligned learning to life for students.

At the core of STARBASE is a transformative 25-hour curriculum designed for 5th-grade classrooms, where students engage in “hands-on, minds-on” STEAM experiences at military installations across the country. Through interactive projects—from robotics and rocketry to space station design and physics labs—students apply classroom concepts in real-world scenarios, building critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

Aligned with state and national Standards of Learning, STARBASE lessons are inquiry-based and are designed to meet a school’s goals. Teachers consistently tell us:
“STARBASE teaches science and math in ways we wish we had the time, resources, and expertise to do in the classroom.”

Military and civilian personnel support learning as guest speakers, offering students a rare glimpse into STEAM careers through guided tours, simulations, and real-world applications in aviation, chemistry, engineering, and more.

Programs

At STARBASE, we are committed to inspiring and preparing the next generation for a future full of possibilities. Through our dynamic programs at the Winchester STARBASE Academy, we introduce students to the exciting world of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Whether they’re considering college, trade school, or entering the workforce directly, our curriculum connects classroom learning with hands-on experiences, helping students explore diverse career paths. We emphasize creativity, critical thinking, and practical skills to empower students to explore their interests in STEAM. At STARBASE, we’re not just educating; we’re shaping the future.

Our Programs

Curriculum

Our curriculum at STARBASE is designed to ignite curiosity and inspire youth to explore the world of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Through hands-on, interactive learning experiences, students are introduced to a wide range of fields that can shape their future. Our programs encourage critical thinking abilities to foster creativity, our curriculum helps students with the tools they need to explore career fields in a rapidly evolving world.

our Curriculum

Questions

Questions? Here, you’ll find answers to common questions about STARBASE and our programs. Whether you’re curious about the curriculum, enrollment process, or what students can expect, we’ve got you covered. We’re committed to providing a supportive environment that encourages learning and exploration in the exciting world of STEAM.

FAQ

Testimonials

Some of the people who we have impacted with our program share their own stories about what the program means to them.

Read More Testimonials

“STARBASE’s program is an amazing program that helps students explore the “main” STEM topics in well thought out and organized hands-on, inquiry-based lessons. The teamwork, critical thinking, and application of what students are learning is super beneficial for students as they learn more about who “they” are as learners and what they love to learn. The experience helps open up their minds to the many STEM fields of study and careers. In addition, it reinforces the academic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal skills to help our students become successful in their lives.”

Beth Grum5th grade teacher, DG Cooley Elementary

“STARBASE helps my students think outside of the box about the standards they need for the SOL.”

Connor Kingdom5th grade teacher, Orchard View Elementary

“I would like to thank you for giving us your time and for the most fun I’ve had in my life. My favorite part is when we made the space station on the computer. And that mortar was so cool to hold and see in person. It was so awesome to meet you guys.”

Call sign DefenseA student from Gainesboro Elementary

“I have been the lead POC for tours for the STARBASE students for two years now, and it has quickly become one of my favorite parts of my regular battle-rhythm. Getting to take the kids on a tour of the armory and teach them about the military and American history is not only an enjoyable part of my work life, but also a crucial part of their education. Letting kids know about their history, as well as helping them learn what their options are as they grow, has become something I take great pride in. I hope to get to continue with this in the coming year, or even years, as I continue on the BN Staff and continue to assist STARBASE.”

SSG TepeCareer Counselor for 3-116th Infantry, Winchester Readiness Center

“I really like STARBASE. It was a cool experience and I loved it. It was really cool how we got to do a tour. I loved everything there. I’m pretty sure next years class will enjoy STARBASE. It was seriously that fun. Thank you for the experience.”

Call sign FlipsA student at Gainesboro Elementary

“STARBASE gives students opportunities beyond what they could get in a classroom and it exposes them to their standards in a way that makes them think they’re playing rather than learning.”

Tara Fulk5th grade teacher, Orchard View Elementary

Location

181 Pendleton Dr.
Winchester, VA 22602
United States

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