Daily Reporter staff reports
Mt. Vernon schools make up 10 percent of the state’s STEM certified locations, according to a recent announcement.
The Indiana Department of Education recently announced that Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation is the first district in the state to be STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) certified in all grades, kindergarten through Grade 12.
This confirmation follows the department’s announcement that all five Mt. Vernon schools recently received the rigorous STEM certification.
Several STEM certifications were added to the list by the state, increasing the total number of schools to 60. Doe Creek Middle School, part of the Southern Hancock County Community School Corporation, is the other county school that is STEM certified.
According to officials, the department of education has identified a great need for more rigorous and integrated STEM education, and local industries are echoing the need for a skilled workforce. In response, Mt. Vernon administrators heeded this call, challenging its schools to integrate STEM throughout the curriculum. All Mt. Vernon schools have made substantial educational changes that integrate STEM in many areas of study. according to the district.
The following STEM initiatives helped MVCSC receive the district STEM certification.
Hiring two elementary STEM teachers who provide weekly engaging activities with every elementary student.
Hiring an eighth-grade robotics teacher
Establishing robotics clubs at every school
Posting visual STEM posters throughout each building
Developing a Makerspace in the high school
Establishing the High-Tech Academy in the high school
Fostering community partners to help integrate STEM in the school
Hiring two technology integration specialists to help support meaningful use of technology within the curriculum
The department of education stated that schools are chosen to receive certification based on their commitment to teaching the STEM disciplines of science, technology, engineering and math throughout the entire school. STEM certified schools exemplify a highly non-traditional approach to education, employing a great deal of inquiry, project-based learning, community engagement, entrepreneurship, student-centered classrooms, integration into humanities and related arts, and out of school STEM activities.
“A quality education begins with amazing educators and excellent material,” said Dr. Jennifer McCormick, Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction.
“Materials rooted in science, technology, engineering and mathematics help prepare our students for a successful life beyond high school. I want to commend these schools for becoming STEM-certified. We are grateful for their passion and dedication.”
