Tampa Prep isn't the only STEM-smart program

Dear Editor:

Your story “Value Dependent” (Aug. 17) highlighted the philosophy behind Tampa Prep's STEM-focused efforts to prepare students for careers of the future. Many similar techniques and technologies are already transforming the way students learn science and math in Sarasota and Charlotte counties' public schools.

Through our STEMsmart partnership with the two districts, we have given students and teachers innovative technology, professional training, and real-world opportunities to connect classroom learning to jobs beyond their school walls. Students are taking part in STEM clubs and camps where they, too, have designed rollercoasters, as well as launched rockets, assembled and programmed robots, and more. Sarasota County Schools just opened the first phase of our STEMsmart “Classrooms of Tomorrow” in every middle school, providing students with powerful technologies to learn collaboratively through investigation and discovery.

Like Tampa Prep's approach to STEM, our initiative applies beyond its core subjects, creating confident critical thinkers across all disciplines. It's important for our business community to know about this growing initiative and the opportunities to help give tomorrow's work force the “STEM smarts” they will need. Learn how you can join us at STEMsmart.org.

Teri A Hansen
President and CEO
Gulf Coast Community Foundation
Venice