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El Segundo Middle School showcases student-driven Design Week projects
Summary
El Segundo Middle School described 'Design Week,' a student-centered program where students researched problems, built prototypes and presented solutions; staff and board members praised the cross-grade collaboration and community partnerships that supported the work.
El Segundo Middle School leaders presented a recap of 'Design Week' to the board on Dec. 9, describing a structured week where every student engaged in a full design cycle: research, planning, prototyping and presentation.
"Design Week was more than an event. It was a school wide celebration of creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and hands on problem solving," principal Dr. Sarah Devantes said, crediting teacher coordination and external partners — including a visit from Mattel specialists — for enriching student experience.
Students worked on age-appropriate projects (sixth-grade board games; seventh- and eighth-grade projects tied to real community problems such as park redesigns and sensory spaces) and presented professional-style pitches. The 'build' day was highlighted as the most engaging part of the week, and teachers reported notable increases in student ownership, confidence and inclusion of students who typically disengage.
Board members praised the structure and student engagement and encouraged continuation and expansion of the program.
Ending: Staff asked for the board's continued support for hands-on, interdisciplinary programming that connects student work to community partners and district priorities.
