Hello there!
Welcome to Illuminway Educational Services
I believe that finding my passion is the most important job I have ever had. I have decided to build a business in an area I am most passionate about and want to encourage anyone to feel inspired to do the same.
Owner Anne McRae
Welcome to My Class
You Learn by Doing
Hands-on STEAM learning where imagination powers creation.
Classes are built around a hands-on, create-as-you-learn approach where students don’t just hear about science and engineering—they experience it. From the very first session, students are building, experimenting, and seeing their ideas take shape. Whether it’s making lights blink, powering small vehicles, or programming a robot, each project connects curiosity with real-world skills.
I believe imagination is as important as instruction. Students are encouraged to ask questions, try new ideas, and collaborate with one another as they work on projects. Along the way, they learn how to apply problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork—the same skills engineers, designers, and innovators use every day.
My goal is simple: to spark a love of STEAM by making it accessible, exciting, and meaningful. No prior experience is needed—just a willingness to explore and discover. With every project, students gain confidence and knowledge, step by step, while creating something they can be proud of.
Learning Paths with Illuminway Educational Services
INSPIRED EXPRESSION - the real learning path
Rather than relying on rote instruction, I foster inspired learning through meaningful, real-world experiences. Start where you are, try something new, find what inspires you and move from there. This empowers students to develop critical thinking, creativity, emotional intelligence, and a deep sense of purpose. When learners are inspired, they become active participants in their education, gaining the skills and confidence needed to thrive in post-secondary education or the workforce. I want to help prepare students to become adaptable, self-motivated, and well-rounded individuals—ready to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Educational Programs by Illuminway Educational Services
STEAM Subject Learning
Explore the world of coding and design through with animation, robotics, video game design as well as home blueprint design and building. The power of math, intricate thinking, problem solving skills and collaboration combine to fuel imagination with real life experiences and outputs.
Courses designed for children and adults new to the world of STEAM subjects. For some classes, each student will need a computer/chromebook.
Campuses and Classes
HOMESCHOOL CAMPUS - FOUNTAIN VALLEY 10350 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708
HOMESCHOOL CAMPUS - FOUNTAIN VALLEY 10350 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708
HOMESCHOOL CAMPUS - FOUNTAIN VALLEY 10350 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708
MONDAYS
CLASSES START AT 9 AM AND ARE 55 MINUTES IN DURATION
HOMESCHOOL CAMPUS - CAPO BEACH 25975 Domingo Avenue Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
HOMESCHOOL CAMPUS - FOUNTAIN VALLEY 10350 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708
HOMESCHOOL CAMPUS - FOUNTAIN VALLEY 10350 Ellis Avenue Fountain Valley, CA 92708
FRIDAYS
CLASSES START AT 8 AM AND ARE 55 MINUTES IN DURATION
Why I am involved with these particular STEAM Classes
ROBOTIC PROGRAM DESIGN WITH EDISON FOR LITTLE ONES
Young students catch on quickly and easily to the basic principles of robotic movement and programming through fun engaging projects using the simple yet versatile Edison robot. Using Edblocks design for students up to age 8, students work on games, creative program design and use lego and other materials to build on their Edison robots. In this way, the students
develop problem-solving abilities and gain a basic understanding of engineering concepts, mechanics, electronics, and programming. Social skills are fostered through group projects, enhancing communication and teamwork.
ENGINEERING FOR KIDS & TEENS
Materials, real tools, real blueprints and wood sticks and strips are provided to create real-world structures. Students develop mathematical and engineering skills as they measure and plan the dimensions of the house. Understanding architectural principles, they apply geometry and physics concepts during construction. The process also enhances problem-solving abilities as builders encounter challenges in design and structure. Introducing basic electrical components for lighting or automation adds an element of technology to the project, fostering skills in electronics.
SCRATCH ANIMATION
STOP MOTION ANIMATION
Scratch animation enables users to create interactive stories, games, and animations. Through the process of designing and coding these projects, learners develop computational thinking by breaking down problems into smaller steps, enhance logical reasoning as they sequence commands, and gain a foundational understanding of coding concepts. Students create their own games to show and share with others.
STOP MOTION ANIMATION
STOP MOTION ANIMATION
Stop animation involves capturing a series of still images to create the illusion of motion when played in sequence. Kids have a blast working together to create their own movie using clay, Legos and other creative materials. Stop animation promotes patience and attention to detail. Problem-solving skills are honed as they experiment with different movements and transitions. Stop animation encourages creativity, storytelling, and planning, as students conceptualize and execute their narratives through the careful arrangement of frames through plots and storyboards.
INTRODUCTION TO ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING WITH KIT BUILDING
Electrical Engineering basics are covered when students learn with various kits how to assemble breadboards, arduino kits, light and electrical moving parts including moving robots, and electrical robotic cars. Many kits contain ultrasonic obstacle avoidance, programmable distance measurement parts, electronic components with motherboards.
Students apply mathematical concepts to calculate resistances, voltages, and currents, fostering mathematical reasoning. The hands-on nature of building circuits enhances spatial reasoning and coordination which nurtures computational thinking.
ROBOTIC PROGRAM DESIGN WITH EDISON USING EDSCRATCH
Edison robotics nurtures creativity in the field of robotic design using Ed Scratch for students older than 8. Students engaging in Edison robotics develop problem-solving abilities as they design and troubleshoot their robots. They gain a practical understanding of engineering concepts, honing skills in mechanics, electronics, and programming. The integration of Edison encourages critical thinking as students analyze challenges and iterate on their designs. Social life collaborative skills are fostered through group projects, enhancing communication and teamwork.
Career Connect Program
STEM learning - a purpose for the future!
For students more serious about taking their inspirations and abilities into a possible career, one of the best learning experiences is to talk with someone already established in a field of interest. I offer my connections in the architectural and theatre design, electrical engineering and interior design industries to arrange meetings to let budding STEAM students ask their meaningful questions to those already passionate in their careers.
