Newcomerstown Middle School is set to embark on an exciting new journey in STEM education, thanks to a generous grant from the Battelle Ohio STEM Learning Network. The $5,000 grant will fund the establishment of a robotics club, making Newcomerstown Middle School the only school in Tuscarawas County to receive this prestigious opportunity.
The inspiration for the robotics club came after the school’s middle school students participated in the Project Lead the Way Showcase. An outstanding performance by a sixth-grade student, who secured first place, along with the impressive second-place finish by the eighth-grade team, ignited a passion for further exploration. Eager to continue working on their projects and compete with other students, the students expressed their desire for more opportunities.
Marilyn Kramer, the curriculum, gifted, and grant coordinator for the school district, explains, “Our students were hooked and asked if there was a way that they could spend more time on their projects, competing with other students.” In response to this enthusiasm, Mrs. McVey, a dedicated teacher at the school, took the initiative to inquire about a competition robotics club and grants to support the program. Through collaborative efforts, they successfully secured the coveted OSLN grant, turning the students’ dream into a reality.
The robotics club will not only enhance the school’s existing STEM program but also provide students with valuable hands-on experience. Working with a Vex competition kit, the teams will collaboratively tackle challenges and solve problems related to designing, building, wiring, and programming their robots. This interactive learning experience will help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills while delving deeper into the fascinating world of robotics.
The Ohio STEM Learning Network, a partnership between the Ohio Department of Education and Battelle, is dedicated to nurturing and empowering the next generation of innovative leaders. Battelle, a leading research and development organization, produces a range of products and services for government and commercial customers. With headquarters in Columbus since 1929, Battelle boasts expertise in national security, health and life sciences, and energy and environmental industries.
With the introduction of the robotics club, Newcomerstown Middle School is paving the way for students to explore the limitless possibilities of STEM education. By immersing themselves in the world of robotics, students will not only expand their knowledge but also ignite their passion for innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is STEM education?
STEM education stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It is an interdisciplinary approach to learning that integrates these four disciplines to promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity among students.
2. How will the robotics club benefit students?
The robotics club will provide students with hands-on experience in designing, building, wiring, and programming robots. Through this interactive learning process, students will develop essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork, while also gaining a deeper understanding of robotics and technology.
3. How did Newcomerstown Middle School secure the grant?
After the middle school students’ impressive performance at the Project Lead the Way Showcase, a teacher at the school, Mrs. McVey, inquired about a competition robotics club and grants to support the program. With the assistance of Marilyn Kramer, the curriculum, gifted, and grant coordinator, they successfully applied for the OSLN grant, making their vision a reality.
4. What is the Ohio STEM Learning Network?
The Ohio STEM Learning Network is a public-private partnership between the Ohio Department of Education and Battelle. Its mission is to inspire and train the next generation of innovative leaders by promoting STEM education initiatives across the state of Ohio.
Sources:
– Battelle: www.battelle.org