Columbus Elementary School’s PTA was awarded a $1,000 grant this week for students and families to participate in shared, hands-on science activities and to be inspired to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
“By getting this grant, our students will be able to expand their imagination beyond their wildest belief,” said PTA President Emma Silva. “Many of our families are not aware of the many opportunities that STEM programs can provide for their children. To have the opportunities that our middle school and high school have with STEM, we must start them young.”
"This award is another concrete example of the strength of the Columbus PTA and its forward-thinking leadership,” said Principal Michael Galland. “The possibilities of what we can do with the funds, and what we now can start to imagine, will blend perfectly with STEM and Next Generation Science Standards-based instruction that is really taking off this fall with fresh energy in all grades.”
To receive the grant, the PTA agreed to run a hands-on science festival program using the National PTA STEM + Families Science Festival resources, and ensure both students and families actively participate in the experiments to enhance positive family engagement.
Columbus’ PTA was one of the 40 school PTAs nationwide given a STEM + Families Science Festivals Grant by Bayer.