Villa Rica Middle School has been named a National STEM Certified Campus by the National Institute for STEM Education making a total of 22 Carroll County School System campuses with the distinction.
NISE-certified STEM campuses have implemented 21st-century learning and strategies in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics that transform school culture and maximize student achievement. Only 2 percent of schools in the nation are STEM certified by NISE.
NISE offers STEM Teaching Certification and supports educators in their efforts to create STEM-based instruction. Five SCES teachers earned individual STEM certification: William Carnes, Sydney Coleman, Derrick Glenn, Jaynie Jackson and Natalie Johnson. Upon completion of the required 38 indicators, participants are better equipped to not only academically challenge students but also prepare them for college and career readiness.
“STEM has been a priority for us in Carroll County since 2018,” Carroll County Schools Superintendent Scott Cowart said, “and this year we will achieve 100 percent national STEM certification for our schools. We emphasize future-focused thinking and skills, because we know STEM concepts are a great way to teach students to be goal oriented and have a growth mindset. STEM practices are a strong foundation to create lifelong learners.”
VRMS is one of the final three Carroll County Schools campuses earning their NISE certification this spring.
“We continue to invest in STEM learning because we know it makes a difference in student learning and prepares them for the workforce of tomorrow,” Associate Superintendent of School Performance Dr. Jessica Ainsworth said. “Our mission is for students to graduate ready to be enrolled, enlisted or employed, and STEM concepts make a powerful impact in preparing them for the future.”
Evolving from STEM professional development and curriculum created at Rice University, the National Institute for STEM Education certification process integrates the most recent research and best practices in STEM, 21st-century learning, and professional development. By using a self-paced, mentor-led approach, NISE certifies teachers, campuses, and districts in STEM teaching.
“The addition of our new STEM innovation lab and having the honor of becoming a National STEM Certified school reflects our commitment to preparing students for the future through rigorous, relevant, and innovative learning experiences,” VRMS Principal Kevin Muldoon said.
VRMS teacher Sydney Coleman shared her discoveries as she became a STEM-certified educator.
“Completing the STEM course is good for both kids and teachers. It helps students learn how to think, solve problems, and understand the world around them. It makes learning more fun and hands-on when completed efficiently, which keeps kids interested and excited,” she said. “For me, STEM allows me the opportunity to be creative in my lessons and helps better prepare students with important skills they will need for the future.”
Carroll County Schools is a leader in STEM education. All campuses are STEM certified schools by the district and 22 schools are nationally STEM certified by NISE. Carroll County School System is one of a handful of school districts in Georgia to utilize a district STEM certification process.
