The Terrebonne Foundation for Academic Excellence recently received a $50,000 grant from Chevron to distribute to 11 local schools featuring hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programs.
All schools that had been reached out to regarding the grant opportunity became recipients. The funds awarded will be used for the programs in elementary, middle, junior high, and high school libraries and science labs in Terrebonne Parish.
Katie Portier, executive director of the foundation, said the Terrebonne Foundation for Academic Excellence is excited for the teachers and students who will benefit from these grants.
Eight elementary and middle schools will receive $3,000 to implement a makerspace library, providing students with equipment including 3D printers, craft supplies, and more. Two junior high schools and one high school are each receiving up to $9,000 to purchase new science lab equipment.
“Hands-on opportunities make learning so much more fun and impactful for students,” said Leah Brown from Chevron. “If you ask anyone working in STEM where their passion for the field began, you will likely hear stories of a special teacher or experience that sparked their interest early on. That’s why we’re committed to providing students and teachers with the tools they need to explore STEM and cultivate passions that will last a lifetime.”