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PDSB opens new Science and Technology Activity Centre at Palgrave PS

January 22, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Riley Murphy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Last week, a brand new Science and Technology Activity Centre (STAC) was opened at Palgrave Public School.

These dedicated spaces provide students with authentic, hands-on learning experiences that strengthen engagement, confidence, and skill development. 

The Peel District School Board (PDSB) shares that STAC programming has been part of their learning landscape for several years, and has grown steadily in response to student interest, educator feedback, and system planning. 

“What began as a small number of applied learning spaces has evolved into a district-wide model, with 30 schools currently offering STAC programming and continued expansion planned to ensure equitable access across communities,” says Malon Edwards, Manager, Communications.

Edwards says these spaces help students build foundational skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and design thinking skills that are essential across all future pathways. 

“STAC also introduces students at an early age to STEAM and skilled trades concepts, helping them see a wide range of possibilities for their learning and future careers while staying deeply connected to curriculum expectations,” he adds.

STEAM learning means that students learn by actively designing, building, testing, and refining ideas rather than only learning concepts theoretically. 

In STAC spaces, students work on real-world challenges using tools, materials, and technologies that mirror authentic applications. 

Edwards says this approach empowers students by giving them ownership over their learning, helping them “build confidence, persistence, and a strong sense of capabilities especially for learners who thrive through doing, making, and problem-solving.”

In this new space, students at Palgrave Public School will be able to work with tools and materials, collaborate on design challenges, and connect classroom learning to real-world applications. 

“Just as importantly,” says Edwards, “it creates opportunities for creativity, exploration, and early exposure to skilled trades and applied pathway experiences that help students discover interests and strengths they may not realize they have.”

This environment will support woodworking, design, and applied STEAM projects in a safe and structured way.

Stan Cameron, Trustee for Caledon Peel District School Board, explains that there are 3 STAC rooms currently running in Caledon, at Alloa Public School, Palgrave Public School, and Tony Pontes Public School, and a fourth room in Caledon East is expected to open this September.

“Any elementary aged students in the Palgrave Public School boundary, if you are looking for an education with a wide variety of experiences and opportunities, including learning in a woodworking shop, while enjoying Science, Technology, Arts, Athletics and Academics, Palgrave Public School is the school for you.”

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