The Jackson-Madison County School System has been awarded $40,000 by Governor Bill Lee’s Future Workforce Initiative to fund science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education at the middle school level. North Parkway Middle (6-8), Northeast Middle (6-a), West Bemis Middle (6-8),and Jackson Career and Technology Elementary School (4-8) will each receive $10,000 to Increase STEM opportunities and awareness among JMCSS students.
“Jackson-Madison County is excited to receive the Middle School STEM Grant Award because It will allow our students to explore and solve real-world problems. JMCSS wants to expose students to careers that Involve STEM and challenge them to prepare for these jobs,” said JMCSS CTE Director Dr. Nathan Lewis.
JMCSS leaders will align courses from middle school to high school, provide career guidance for students, and expand partnerships with local Industries to create pathways for students.
“Many students in Jackson have not been exposed to STEM concepts on a large-scale. This grant award will allow our students to learn about the world of STEM through the use of a 3-D printer, robotics kits, medical exploration equipment, and hydroponics systems,” Dr. Lewis said.
“The desire of our board, executive team and senior leadership to make JMCSS the best by any measure will be realized through enterprises like the Middle School STEM Start-Up. This Is a growth opportunity for our educators as well as our scholars,” said Superintendent Dr. Marlon King.
“Teachers will be trained to bring STEM designed lessons Into the classroom and prepare students as they use the equipment provided by this grant,” Dr. Lewis said