On May 22, a team of students from the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Academy at Lee High School presented their research and proposal to a judging panel and to the public during the final phase of the SA Smart City Challenge. The panel of six was selected among transportation experts, entrepreneurs and city planners.
The Mayor’s K-12 Smart City Challenge offers students an opportunity to learn about the SA Tomorrow Plan, a planning blueprint for the city’s future that accounts for population and demographic projections during the next 20 years.
The STEM students presented a solution based on real data analysis to improve transit technology, add additional bus routes, increase route frequency, and incentivize ridership. Their proposal finished first place and was awarded the Mayor’s Smart City Cup.
This was a very formative experience for the students involved. During the challenge they had access to mentors to help them perfect their research and presentation. They also were able to present their ideas and spend time with Mayor Ron Nirenberg.
“We were so excited to be able to take part in this challenge. This opportunity allowed us to be able to apply the twenty-first century skills that we have been working to develop through all of our project-based learning (PBL) experiences,” said STEM Director Jennifer Jensen. “Receiving first place recognition, coupled with the prospect of having our STEM students play a role in city development and subsequent city expansion, is such an honor! I am proud of the way that these students and their Coach represented STEM Academy and North East Independent School District.”
