STEM certified schools announced
May 14—INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Department of Education has announced 20 schools are newly certified as leaders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.
This year's cohort also includes four schools that renewed certifications, as well as 11 additional schools that are making strides to create an engaging STEM culture.
"STEM certified schools are committed to providing high-quality, engaging experiences that not only support students in developing problem-solving skills, but also prepare them for careers in emerging industries," said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. "Ensuring every student in Indiana can meet the challenges and opportunities of a constantly evolving workforce begins with high-quality STEM education, and these schools are leaning in to meet the needs of Hoosier students."
Created in 2015, the STEM certification program recognizes schools committed to teaching STEM disciplines beyond the classroom.
STEM certification exemplifies a highly innovative 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.
For secondary schools in particular, earning STEM certification requires heightened intention and coordination in terms of vision, scheduling and interdisciplinary collaboration. This year's schools that have newly earned STEM certification include:
Greensburg Elementary, Greensburg Community Schools
North Decatur Junior/Senior High School, Decatur County Community Schools
South Decatur Elementary School, Decatur County Community Schools
In 2023, a new designation was added to highlight schools that have demonstrated significant progress in creating an engaging STEM culture and empowering students to create and innovate through integrated STEM learning experiences.
Schools designated as Developing in STEM Certification include:
North Decatur Elementary School, Decatur County Community Schools
Each of these developing schools are continuing to establish infrastructure for sustainable, high-quality STEM education and will receive intentional, strategic support from IDOE as they progress toward STEM certification.
"I am so incredibly proud of our students and staff. They have worked very hard over the last several years to earn this honor," South Decatur Elementary Principal Nicole Stone said. "We understand the importance of STEM in our schools and classrooms, and our teachers have been excited to learn and grow our program. I am particularly proud of the way our students and teachers have supported and uplifted one another, fostering a culture of kindness, inclusion, and respect within our school community throughout this process. Casey Boton, our STEM teacher, has done an amazing job of inspiring both students and our staff!"
"At South Decatur Elementary we realize that STEM is embedded in all parts of our lives," Bolton said. "It teaches kids to collaborate, think creatively, use ingenuity, be innovative, and persevere. Those are some of the best things we can teach our students to prepare them for their futures. Integrating STEM throughout all classes and parts of the building helps our students to become better in all subjects and areas of life."
"Becoming a STEM certified school is a testament of the hard work and dedication that both NDHS staff and students put in each day," North Decatur High School Assistant Principal Nick Messer said. "The STEM certification signifies we are preparing students to be competitive as they enter college, enter the workforce or trade school, or enter the armed services. We are challenging students in the ever-changing fields of STEM with real world experiences and hands on opportunities that will prepare them for diverse career opportunities."
