Lemont-Bromberek Combined School District 113A has been awarded a grant from CITGO dedicated to STEM programming. In applying for the $50,000 grant, the district shared that the project is all about having students engage with science, engineering, math and technology integration during physical education classes and recess, creating new opportunities for students.
The grant will help to fund an interactive playground at Old Quarry Middle School which includes digital stimulation that promotes wellbeing, health, and wellness. It is a digital screen that allows students to throw, touch, and interact with in fun interactive and learning ways. These activities are carefully crafted to help kids foster their social-emotional, physical, and intellectual skills.
CITGO has also funded four teachers in their travels to Houston, TX for a national conference, Citgo STEM Summit, where they will present a presentation called Inquiry Based Approach to Incorporating STEM in Grades 4-8. The presentation highlights the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math into all aspects of the school day and embraces the use of new technology and career awareness for young learners.
“This is the fifth time we have received a grant through the STEM Talent Pipeline Program and we are proud to be a CITGO Innovation Academy,” said Dr. Daniela Fountain, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning. “We are always looking for ways to add more hands-on and personalized learning opportunities for our students, and these funds have been instrumental in providing engaging activities for our community.”
One of the great ways that the school districts in Lemont collaborate to bring STEM awareness to the community is taking place on Thursday, Nov. 7. STEM Night 2024 will take place at Lemont High School from 6-8 p.m. and will feature several sports-themed activities. Students will be able discover the science behind their favorite games through hands-on experiments, engaging demonstrations, and interactive challenges.
“There is science in everything, including movement and sports,” said Dr. Fountain. “STEM Night is a wonderful opportunity to bring our students together with high school students and families to engage in fun and meaningful learning experiences!”