Progress, not pressure

Badges & Certificates

Badges at Pecan Grove STEM Academy are earned through our weekly STEM classes — not through attendance or time. Students earn badges by showing real progress, completing builds, and demonstrating understanding.

Our current focus (Jan–Mar) is the Engineering Theme. Students work toward three Engineering badges: Builder, Engineer, and Inventor.

Three badges = one themed Certificate.
Step 1
Attend Weekly Classes
Kids join any weekly lab that fits their age. Badges are earned over time through consistent progress.
Step 2
Complete Skill Milestones
Each badge has measurable checkpoints (build strength, accuracy, creativity, robotics basics, etc.).
Step 3
Earn Badges
Once a student demonstrates mastery of all required skills, they earn that badge — not based on time or participation.
Step 4
Receive a Certificate
Collect all 3 badges in the theme to earn the official STEM Certificate for that season.
Builder Badge
Builder Badge
Engineering foundations & structure strength.
  • Understands shapes, stability, and support.
  • Builds basic structures with accuracy.
  • Completes entry-level engineering challenges.
Engineer Badge
Engineer Badge
Robotics & mechanical components.
  • Uses gears, motors, and mechanical parts correctly.
  • Builds functioning systems and solves real problems.
  • Demonstrates engineering thinking & testing.
Inventor Badge
Inventor Badge
Creative engineering & problem solving.
  • Designs unique solutions or prototypes.
  • Combines creativity with function.
  • Completes open-ended design challenges.
Engineering Certificate: When a student earns all three badges (Builder, Engineer, Inventor), they receive the official Engineering Certificate for the Jan–Mar season.

Good to know

  • Badges are earned through demonstrated skill, not attendance.
  • Kids earn badges at their own pace — some work quickly, others take time.
  • Weekly membership families automatically participate in badge progression.
  • Fast Track programs give a separate specialty certificate, not Engineering badges.
  • New themes (Science, Inventor, Money/Business) launch seasonally.