How a new facility in this Staten Island school aims to engage, empower students [Video]

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — A new area combining key educational components and calming resources for students was recently unveiled at PS 20, Port Richmond.

The STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading/Robotics, Engineering, Art and Math) and Meditation room aims to provide a place “where students can become better problem-solvers, critical-thinkers and empowered learners in the world that they live in,” said Principal Amanda Mezzatesta.

The ribbon-cutting celebrating the opening of the room on Wednesday was the culmination of a months-long initiative spearheaded by Mezzatesta and her staff, including Jossue Mendez, a paraprofessional and former student at the school who’s artistry helped turn the dream into reality.

“Students will use critical thinking, logical analysis, inquiry and project-based learning by experimenting with a variety of hands-on STREAM education opportunities throughout the year,” explained Mezzatesta, who is in her first year as the school’s leader. “It also provides them with an opportunity to learn science concepts, math concepts, teamwork, …