LENOIR, NC (September 10, 2021) — More exploration in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) will be delivered to students on board the Code On the Go bus, an initiative supported by the Coding and Mobile App Development Grant Program that was launched in 2019 with funding from the NC General Assembly. Caldwell County Schools was one of 16 districts across the state to receive the grant.
“Code on the Go STEM program is an innovative program designed to provide Caldwell County students the opportunity to learn computer science, coding and mobile app development that will help them gain key skills in high demand in the 21st century economy,” said Amy Philyaw, STEM Director and Grant Coordinator.
The STEM lab bus will house robots for K-12 students, maker space challenges, and Merge technology, which will allow students to be immersed in virtual and augmented reality activities. More than 25 workstations are part of the newly designed space as well as an awning for an outdoor learning area. The STEM activities are developed for students in all grades levels.
The grant-funded project totaled $46,970, which contributed to the purchase and renovation of an International school bus to use as a STEM lab. A portion of the grant also funded districtwide training sessions for middle school teachers to implement coding courses within the current curriculum.
“The focus is on empowering students to create and contribute – not just use and consume – in the digital economy and to actively engage as informed citizens in our complex, technology-driven world,” Philyaw said.
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