Powered by Community STEAM
Bunny Bolt: Circuit Approved Fun Run
Bunny Bolt Fun Run Coming March 27
March is Bunny Bolt month at CSA! Our annual Bunny Bolt Fun Run on March 27 is a school-wide event where students walk or run laps while cheering each other on and celebrating movement and school spirit.
Along the course, students will enjoy fun activity stations like tug-of-war, 4-square, jump ropes, basketball, and other movement games. The Bunny Bolt isn’t about speed or competition — it’s about having fun, staying active, and supporting the CSA community.
Every student will participate in the Bunny Bolt. Donations from family and friends are encouraged but not required, and all contributions help support important programming for CSA. Students can also earn fun incentives as they reach fundraising levels, and grades will take part in challenges to see who can come out on top. Together we are working to raise $10,000 to support student field trips, hands-on STEAM learning experiences, and innovative classroom projects that inspire curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving.
Each Learning Neighborhood will have its own dedicated time on the course, giving students plenty of opportunity to enjoy the activities and celebrate together. Families are welcome to come cheer on our students throughout the day. The schedule for the day:
8:30 am - 10 am 4th-6th Grades
10:15 am - 11:45 am High School Students
12:30 pm - 2 pm 7th-8th Grades
Laughter Lab LIVE
Students are invited to take part in an unforgettable experience through our upcoming Laughter Lab Student Workshop March 26.
This full day, immersive workshop for upper level students will be led by nationally touring comedian John Branyan, known for humor that is both clever and family-friendly. Throughout the day, students will learn the fundamentals of comedy writing and performance — developing original material, refining timing, strengthening stage presence, and building confidence as communicators.
The experience culminates that evening at Laughter Lab LIVE, where each student participant will perform their original stand-up set on stage in front of a live, ticketed audience alongside John and their fellow student comedians. (Check out his Three Little Pigs routine.) This authentic performance opportunity allows students to apply what they’ve learned in a real-world setting, building courage and presentation skills that extend far beyond the stage.
Each participant will receive two complimentary tickets for the evening performance. Space is limited, and registration is required. Parents must complete Final Forms online to secure their student’s spot in this unique and memorable experience. Individual tickets will be $25 for the evening performance and can be purchased at this link from Greene Giving.
Laughter Lab Student Workshop
Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to step into the spotlight at the Laughter Lab Student Workshop at Community STEAM Academy!
On March 26, 15 upper-grade students will get the exclusive opportunity to spend an entire day learning the craft of comedy from nationally touring comedian John Branyan, known for humor that’s clever, creative, and safe for the whole family. Students won’t just hear about comedy — they’ll write it, shape it, rehearse it, and build their very own original stand-up set.
And here’s the best part… that evening, every workshop participant will take the stage at Laughter Lab LIVE, performing for a real, ticket-buying audience alongside John and the other student comedians. Lights. Microphone. Applause. This is the real deal!
Each participant will receive two complimentary tickets for the show. Spots are limited and registration is required. Parents must complete Final Forms online by March 19 to secure their student’s place in this unforgettable experience.
Student-Led Parent-Teacher Conferences
Schedule 4th - 6th, Schedule 7th - 8th, Schedule 9th - 11th
As we prepare for our second round of student-led parent-teacher conferences this school year, we want to take a moment to share why this experience is so meaningful for families — and how it reflects what makes the Community STEAM Academy unique.
At CSA, everything begins with the student. Our goal is not only academic growth, but helping each child discover their strengths, build confidence, and learn how their gifts can positively impact their family, their community, and the world around them. Student-led conferences are one of the most powerful ways we bring that mission to life.
During these conferences, your child is not a passive participant — they are the guide. Each student prepares a portfolio of recent work, carefully selecting pieces they are proud of and ready to explain. When conference time begins, students lead the conversation, walking parents through their learning, their progress, and their goals.
Teachers are present to support the discussion, clarify expectations, and answer questions, but the spotlight stays where it belongs — on the student. Children are encouraged to reflect honestly on where they are thriving, where they are still growing, and what steps they are taking next. For families, this offers a rare and meaningful window into how your child thinks about their learning.
Parents often tell us they are surprised — and moved — by how thoughtfully their children explain their work. Students don’t just talk about grades or completed assignments. They share what challenged them, what excited them, and how they overcame obstacles. These moments build pride, accountability, and trust — both at school and at home.
Student-led conferences help children develop skills that reach far beyond the classroom. Research shows this approach supports essential life skills by helping students:
Strengthen communication and self-advocacy skills
Develop a growth mindset
Deepen family engagement in learning
Align with Ohio’s STEM Quality Model
Build confidence as self-directed learners
Much like our mastery-based approach to assessment, student-led conferences move beyond a simple “I got an A.” They give students the chance to demonstrate real understanding, reflect on effort, and take pride in progress. Just as importantly, they strengthen relationships between students, families, and teachers — because learning is always strongest when it’s relational.
We believe these conferences help children see themselves as capable, reflective learners whose voices matter. For families, they create meaningful conversations that often continue long after the conference ends.
Our next round of student-led conferences will take place on March 5 from 3–7 p.m. and March 6 from 8 a.m.–3 p.m. CSA parents are encouraged to sign up using the appropriate link for grades 4–6, 7–8, or 9–11.
We look forward to welcoming families and celebrating student growth together.
Community Open House
You are invited to a Community Open House!
Tour. Meet. Connect. Learn.
This event is IDEAL for COMMUNITY MEMBERS, REALTORS, and PROFESSIONALS who help families explore school choices.
As professionals who often help families navigate important school decisions, your insight and connection matter. During the Open House, you’ll have the chance to tour our Academy, meet our educators and students, and learn more about our hands-on, project-based approach to learning.
Whether you work with relocating families, support community growth, or simply want to learn more about STEAM educational options in southwest Ohio, we would love to welcome you.
Call 937-800-2720 or email info@communitysteam.com with questions. You may RSVP for a group or individual. Our students and staff look forward to welcoming you.
Very Merry Open House
Mark your calendar now! The Community STE[A]M Academy is hosting the second Very Merry Open House, Thursday, Dec. 18 from 5-7 pm. Some of the activities include:
Middle & High School Project Showcase and Presentations (students are expected to present their projects that evening)
Pictures with Santa
Cookie Decorating
Festive Holiday Activities
Tours for Prospective Families
New PIVOT Group Presence
Student Expectations for December Showcase and Holiday Open House
Dress Code: Students should wear business casual attire, which includes:
Collared shirts, blouses, or sweaters
Dress pants, khakis, skirts, or dresses (knee-length or longer)
Closed-toe shoes (no sneakers, slides, crocs, or flip-flops)
No jeans, t-shirts, or hoodies please.
Presentation Preparation:
Students should be fully prepared to explain their project, including the process, learning outcomes, and key takeaways.
Presentations should be clear, well-practiced, and within the time guidelines set by the teacher.
Visual aids, prototypes, or demonstration materials should be neatly arranged and ready for display. These items should be set up prior to the start of your 30 minute presentation time slot.
Engagement & Professionalism:
Students must remain at their assigned presentation area for their scheduled/selected time block, which is 30 minutes.
They should actively engage with visitors, answer questions, and demonstrate professionalism.
Phones and personal devices should not be used during the showcase.
Attendance & Alternative Presentation:
Students are expected to attend and participate in the showcase.
If a student is unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict, they must present their project the following school day in front of their learning neighborhood peers while adhering to the same dress code expectations.
Dog Training Classes - June 14
Class Topic: House Manners - Not jumping, Counter Surfing
Dog Training Classes - May 17
Class Topic: Jump Through Arms, Spin, Beg - you choose the trick
Murder on the Dance Floor
Enjoy a captivating performance written and performed by CSA’s talented students as they debut their original comedy-mystery, Murder on the Dance Floor. The evening includes dinner catered by City BBQ, making it a full experience of entertainment and flavor.
This is more than a show—it's a celebration of creativity, community, and the incredible potential of our students.
Your attendance helps support CSA’s vision to transform the Church Street property into one of the most innovative and dynamic STE[A]M learning environments in southwest Ohio.
Dog Training Classes - Feb. 15
Class Topic: Leash Handling Skills/Intro to Loose Leash Walking
Prospective Student Open House
Interested in STEAM education for your students? Curious about what makes us different from traditional schooling? Join us at the Prospective Student Open House at CSA-Xenia on Wednesday, May 22, 2024!
At the open house, you'll be able to take a tour, see student projects, explore our learning space, and catch the vision for our innovative education! Drop in anytime between 5:30-7PM.
The CSA team looks forward to meeting you!
Location: 855 Lower Bellbrook Rd Xenia, OH 45385
Eat Wings, Raise Funds - Buffalo Wild Wings
Support CSA-Xenia at Buffalo Wild Wings in Xenia on May 22nd from 4:00-9:00.
Be sure to mention Community STEAM Academy-Xenia or show them the flyer attached to this event.
15% of sales will be donated to our school. Thank you for your support of our innovative education!
Location: 104 Hospitality Dr, Xenia, OH 45385
"Anyone Can Garden!" Workshop Part 1
⚙️Powered by Community STEAM: We invite students, their families, and community members for our engaging 2-part "Anyone Can Garden" Workshop!
🌱In Part 1, Ms. Tami Kincer, founder of Cross Creek Hydroponics, will teach participants about the process for starting seeds indoors for a summer garden, whether it is small scale in porch pots, or larger scale in raised beds or traditional gardens. Families will get to choose from multiple varieties of vegetable seeds and take their seed trays home to germinate. Part 2 of the workshop will be May 16 with instruction on how to transfer the seedlings.
✨ Students should be accompanied by an adult for the workshop. Part 1: Starting Seeds is March 21 and Part 2: Transferring Seedlings is May 16. Both parts are held at CSA at 855 Lower Bellbrook Rd in Xenia from 3:30-5PM. This event is open to our CSA families and anyone in the community!
🌿Your $20 class fee per family covers your supplies to start seeds for a dozen different vegetables. Sign ups will close and payment is due via PayPal link or check made out to CSA-Xenia on March 18. Again, form must be completed and payment received by March 18 at 2:45PM to reserve your spot so our host can prepare supplies. There are no walk-in spots.
Register here: https://forms.gle/pt59D21uKebmR56R7
Follow our event on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1063947414859238
Prospective Student Open House
Interested in STEAM education for your students? Curious about what makes us different from traditional schooling? Join us at the Prospective Student Open House at CSA-Xenia on Tuesday, March 19, 2023!
At the open house, you'll be able to take a tour, see student projects, explore our learning space, and catch the vision for our innovative education! Drop in anytime between 5:30-7PM.
The CSA team looks forward to meeting you!
Location: 855 Lower Bellbrook Rd Xenia, OH 45385
Spring Hike with CSA-Xenia
⚙️Powered by Community STEAM: We invite students, their families, and community members to a Spring Hike!
🌳The guided hike will be approximately 2 mile hike with insights on spring in the park.
🥾Please wear study shoes and bring water for this hike at Russ Nature Reserve. Note that there will be some elevation changes and the hike will last approximately an 1 hour, so please bring water along. This event is open to our CSA families and anyone in the community!
🌿 No reservation is required, but please RSVP if you are coming! https://www.facebook.com/events/1106849707112879
Ladies Self-Defense Workshop
⚙️Powered by Community STEAM: LADIES, come on out for a self-defense workshop on Friday, March 1 from 6:30-8PM by black belt martial arts instructor Rachael Pope. No experience in martial arts necessary for this workshop!
🥋Rachael will teach participants important and practical self defense techniques in this workshop. Please wear loose fitting pants that you can easily move around in, T-shirt, and tennis shoes (no flip-flops). Long hair should be pulled back.
✨ Ladies age 13+ are invited as well as girls 11-12 years old with a participating female adult. This event is open to our CSA families and anyone in the community!
❤️The fee is $10 per participant. Limited to 20 participants for a personal experience for all. Sign ups will close and payment is due via PayPal link or check made out to CSA-Xenia on February 28. Again, form must be completed and payment received by February 28 at 2:45PM to reserve your spot. There are no walk-in spots.
Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/txSLJGdcDL
Facebook event: https://fb.me/e/4YmEYdWqi
Location: CSA Campus 855 Lower Bellbrook Rd Xenia OH 45385
Prospective Student Open House
Interested in STEAM education for your students? Curious about what makes us different from traditional schooling? Join us at the Prospective Student Open House at CSA-Xenia on Thursday, February 15, 2023!
At the open house, you'll be able to take a tour, see student projects, explore our learning space, and catch the vision for our innovative education! Drop in anytime between 5:30-7PM.
The CSA team looks forward to meeting you!
Location: 855 Lower Bellbrook Rd Xenia, OH 45385
Family Paint Night!
⚙️Powered by Community STEAM: Powered by Community STEAM: Join us for Paint Night with Olivia MacDougall from Copper Studio Art on February 9, 2024 at 6:30-8:30PM.
🎨👩🎨Olivia will lead participants through a painting step by step! Everyone can paint and experience art!
✨ This event is for families or friends with a two-panel painting design. For example, a mother/father and student, a couple, or two friends! Please sign up with one other individual if you want both panels. If a student is joining as part of the pair, ages 6th grade and up is the recommended age. This event is open to our CSA families and anyone in the community!
⭐️ The fee is $20 per participant ($40 for the two complete panels). Sign ups will close and payment is due via PayPal link or check made out to CSA-Xenia on February 6. Again, form must be completed and payment received by February 6 at 2:45PM to reserve your spot. There are no walk-in spots due to our host preparing supplies. Limited to 30 spots total.
Registration link: https://forms.office.com/r/xk6Medpuwr
Facebook event: https://fb.me/e/4aiDC3MZt
Location: CSA Campus 855 Lower Bellbrook Rd Xenia OH 45385
Valentine's Cookie Decorating Class
⚙️Powered by Community STEAM: Join us for a Valentine's Cookie Decorating Class on February 3, 2024 at CSA-Xenia led by Bridget Walker, owner of Sweets Boutique! There will be two sessions: Pick either 1PM or 3PM
👩🍳Bridget will lead participants through a fun experience decorating three different cookie designs for Valentine's Day!
✨ All ages are invited! This event is open to our CSA families and anyone in the community! Please note that elementary and middle school students joining us should have an adult accompanying them for this class. Tours of CSA will also be available after the class if desired.
⭐️ The fee is $10 per participant and covers all of your supplies to learn to ice three different cookie designs. Sign ups will close and payment is due via PayPal link or check made out to CSA-Xenia on January 26 so our host has time to prepare all necessary supplies. Again, form must be completed and payment received by January 26 at 2:45PM to reserve your spot. There are no walk-in spots.
Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/58zP0bk9NS
Canva 101 Design Workshop
⚙️Powered by Community STEAM: Join us for a Canva 101 Workshop on January 29, 2024 from 5:30-7PM at CSA-Xenia led by our very own Christian Booth, computer science teacher!
👩🍳Mr. Booth invites participants to come and learn how to navigate Canva. You will learn how to access different templates and how to use the search bar, the toolbar and lastly how to download and/or share your creative designs.
✨ All ages 6th grade and up are invited! This event is open to our CSA families and anyone in the community! Please note that middle/high school students joining us should have an adult accompanying them for this class. All participants should bring their personal laptop, charged, so they can be ready to go. If you don't already have a Canva account, please make one ahead of time or arrive 10 minutes early for help if needed.
⭐️ The fee is $10 per participant. Sign ups will close and payment is due via PayPal link or check made out to CSA-Xenia on January 26. Again, form must be completed and payment received by January 26 at 2:45PM to reserve your spot. There are no walk-in spots.
Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/68VViiKEz1
Location: CSA Campus 855 Lower Bellbrook Rd Xenia OH 45385
Winter Hike at Clifton Gorge
Powered by Community STEAM: We invite students, their families, and community members to a Winter Hike!
CSA staff will lead the approximately 3 mile hike through Clifton Gorge. Meet in the parking at Clifton Gorge State Preserve, 2331 State Route 343, Yellow Springs, OH 45387.
Please wear study shoes, dress warm, and bring water for this approximately 3 mile hike through the gorge. Note that there will be significant elevation changes and the hike will last approximately an 1 1/2 - 2 hours, so this event is best for those with previous physical activity. This event is open to our CSA families and anyone in the community!
No reservation is required, but please RSVP if you are coming here: https://fb.me/e/QX9G86ZE
I Want To Be The Change: Winter Concert
Join the music ensembles of CSA-Xenia for their “I Want To Be The Change” Winter Concert directed by Music Coach Lydia Kee! Percussion and choir ensembles will perform the pieces they have been working on during the first semester of learning. Visitors, tours of CSA-Xenia will be available for the 30 minutes following the concert!
Doors open at 6:45PM. The address is 855 Lower Bellbrook Rd, Xenia, OH 45385.
Living Museum: Student Showcase
Parents and community members, join seventh grade CSA students to celebrate the first semester of learning with a showcase of the Living Museum Project! Come see the hard work students have put into this project!
Doors will open at 5PM at 855 Lower Bellbrook Rd., Xenia, OH 45385. Student Ambassadors will also be available to give building tours.
Christmas Cookie Decorating Class
Powered by Community STEAM: Join us for a Christmas Cookie Decorating Class at CSA-Xenia led by Bridget Walker, owner of Sweets Boutique!
Bridget will lead participants through a fun experience decorating three different cookie designs for Christmas!
All ages are invited! This event is open to our CSA families and anyone in the community! Please note that elementary and middle school students joining us should have an adult accompanying them for this class.
The fee is $8 per participant and covers all of your supplies to learn to ice three different cookie designs. Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/qQuunMHtaK Sign ups will close on December 6 so our host has time to prepare all necessary supplies.
Follow this event on our CSA Facebook page: https://fb.me/e/1lY5SMGzG
Community Christmas Caroling
Join us in bringing holiday cheer to our community on Friday, December 1st, 2023 from 5:30-7:30PM as part of downtown Xenia's Christmas Station event!
We welcome CSA students and their families to meet us in front of Comfort Dental (44 Xenia Towne Square, Xenia, OH) starting at 5:30PM. Be sure to dress for the weather as we'll be walking around downtown.
A list of songs will be provided in print for many of our favorite Christmas carols when you come. The city will be full of lights and festivities from Shawnee Park to Xenia Station, we are looking forward to being part of the Christmas cheer! Follow this event on Facebook
Fearless in Spirit: Women in Military
You're invited to join us for a Special Reception with author Cassie Barlow, Ret. Col. USAF and President, Southwestern Ohio Council for Higher Education (SOCHE) as she speaks on honoring the "Fearless in Spirit: Women in Military!!"
Guests will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, community connections, distinguished speakers, a sparkling toast, and the opportunity to support STEAM education and the core values of the Community STEAM Education. The reception begins at 5PM on November 28.
Tickets can be reserved with your $100 donation via The Dayton Foundation for this reception at the following link https://www.daytonfoundation.org/ccgift.html?Source=EXT... Be sure to select "This gift is for an event" when registering.
Seating is limited!! Be sure to get your ticket! We look forward to seeing you!
Prospective Student Open House
Interested in STEAM education for your students? Curious about what makes us different from traditional schooling? Join us at the Prospective Student Open House at CSA-Xenia on November 9, 2023!
At the open house, you'll be able to meet teachers, see student projects, explore our learning space, and catch the vision for our innovative education! Drop in anytime between 6-8PM.
The CSA team looks forward to meeting you!