Plainedge teacher sparks learning with robots, pumpkins and bread baking

Students in the STREAM classroom at Eastplain Elementary School in North Massapequa might find themselves designing arcade games out of cardboard boxes, coding robots or observing how a pumpkin slowly decomposes and grows into new life.

STREAM — which stands for science, technology, research, engineering, art and math — is taught through hands-on exploration by teacher Eileen Santoro. “In STREAM, students are excited to learn,” said Santoro, 43, of Massapequa Park. “Everyone has an opportunity to shine. Even students who struggle in other areas are excited to learn.”

Santoro grew up in Massapequa Park. “I had an amazing third grade teacher [Jean LaMarca], and I knew from when I was little that I wanted to teach,” she said.

Now in her 17th year as an educator, Santoro, who has a PhD in education, works with students in prekindergarten through fifth grade.

“In STREAM I see every student in the school,” she said. “We encourage a growth mindset and inspire students to be curious.”

Her work recently earned her a 2026 ASSET Bright Light Award, which recognizes Suffolk County educators who demonstrate innovation and collaboration in technology and creative teaching.

“Dr. Santoro is a collaborative and creative leader among her colleagues inside and outside the district,” said Lisa DePaola, the Plainedge school district’s assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. 

Recent projects include a cardboard box arcade, where fifth graders designed their own games and later hosted a family arcade night so younger students and parents could play them. 

Outside the classroom, Santoro also manages the school greenhouse and garden. One popular growing experiment involves “Pumpkin Jack,” in which younger students watch a pumpkin decompose in a jar and eventually sprout new life. “It draws their observations, and they love seeing the changes each time,” Santoro said.

Students also participated in service-learning projects. Last year, through a program called “Bake for Good,” students learned to bake bread during a virtual field trip organized by King Arthur Baking Co. Students baked loaves for their families and donated 85 loaves to The INN Long Island, which operates soup kitchens.

Fifth grader Mason Triolo, 10, said she enjoys Santoro’s class. “Dr. Santoro helps me understand everything about STREAM and makes learning fun,” she said.

Looking ahead, Santoro said she hopes STREAM programs continue giving students opportunities to explore and collaborate. “The world is constantly changing,” she said. “If we can give students experiences to create and work together, it’s a positive place for them to be.”

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