Grant Recipient - Scott Stagnitta // Currently, students in the 8th grade technology course utilize the Lego Mindstorm Program, a national award-winning program to promote hands-on learning of STEM principals in the classroom (STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). The original Mindstorm Program was funded in 2008 by a $10,000 grant from the Allyn Foundation. This new grant provided money to expand the program by purchasing and utilizing advanced sensors to allow students to expand the capabilities of the robots they are required to program and build during the class. These RFID, radio frequency identification detectors, allow students to program commands into their robots, instructing them to do a certain reaction (movement or sound). By providing this higher level of robotic capability, students will have increased knowledge and hands-on experience of STEM principals.

Grant Recipients - Matthew Slauson and Rob Tuttle // Currently, the Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Principles of Engineering, Digital Electronics and Engineering Design and Development classes use Fischertechnik equipment to teach STEM principals. This program is part of the national Project Lead the Way pre-engineering program through the Rochester Institute of Technology. The grant provided for a new unit of study by purchasing equipment to allow students to explore hydraulics, pneumatics and control systems, taking this program to a higher level of hands-on learning. Students will benefit as these components will allow them to understand real world manufacturing applications.