Verizon Foundation awards 3 grants totaling $60,000 to 3 North East ISD magnet programs
Three middle school magnet programs each will receive $20,000 from the Verizon Foundation and Project Lead The Way to strengthen computer science-related curriculum. The computer-related curriculum will help middle school students transition into high school-level computer science pathways, according to the directors of the magnet programs.
The magnet programs at White, Krueger and Nimitz middle schools will use the grant award for teacher training as well as equipment designated by PLTW as essential to the implementation of two courses, App Creators and Computer Science for Innovators and Makers
The App Creators program exposes students to computer science by developing mobile apps that will solve real-life problems in the areas of health, environment, emergency preparedness, education, community service and school culture.
The Computer Science for Innovators and Makers unit will allow students to design and develop a physical computing device, and plan and develop code for microcontrollers that bring their physical designs to life.
Fernando Ruiz, the principal of the Design and Technology Academy at White, said that using technology is a great motivator for students.
“We help prepare our students for college or a career anytime that we put practical technology in their hands,” Ruiz said. “With this technology, we can guide our students through high-level lessons that allow them to discover real-world solutions to real-world problems.”
Several DATA courses offer middle school students the opportunity to earn high school credit. This program prepares students for careers or continued studies in architecture, visualization, computer science and scientific research.
Stephen Watson, the director of the Krueger School of Applied Technologies, said that the PLTW program will complement the school’s two focuses: aerospace science and technology.
“Our rocketry program prepares students to demonstrate their engineering capabilities at our local launch sites and at locations across the nation,” Watson said. “Participation in PLTW will not only provide us with additional training, but also provide us with networking opportunities with others doing similar work. “
“We hope to connect with business partners through our participation in PLTW to provide our students with rich, hands-on experiences,” he said.
Jennifer Jensen, the principal at the STEM Academy, anticipates the grant will enhance the academy’s math and computer science pathways. The academy focuses on science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
“The PLTW units will increase programming knowledge and level the playing field among a diverse student body as they advance to the high school level,” Jensen said.
Project Lead The Way provides advanced learning experiences for students in grades kindergarten through 12th. The organization also provides teacher training, resources and support to engage students in real-world and hands-on learning. It is run by a board comprised of current or retired leaders from such companies as Dow Chemical, Autodesk, General Motors and Lockheed Martin.
North East ISD educators interested in seeking grants can access the grants mini base created by the district’s Government Relations and Grant Development Department. District educators must be signed into the district intranet system to access: https://www.neisd.net/Page/471 . Watch the video on the “Grant Training and Writing” page before starting the grant writing process.
