Waycross Middle School has been awarded a $50,000 classroom makeover grant from NextEra Energy Resources through its charitable arm, the NextEra Energy Foundation, to improve technology, equipment, and resources as part of a continued commitment to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. The STEM Classroom Makeover Grant is a Foundation initiative intended to provide transformational learning opportunities for students in a classroom setting. The funds from this grant will address needs in infrastructure, technology, or resources (i.e., software, equipment, books, training of teachers, tutors, paraprofessionals) to advance STEM curriculum and increase exposure of students to STEM education and careers in underserved areas.
“We couldn't be more excited about the amazing opportunities the STEM grant will bring to Waycross Middle School. We are casting a vision for every student to be successful after high school, and that begins with the experiences they encounter now. Through the STEM grant, our students will be able to dive into hands-on learning like never before. We're incredibly grateful to NextEra Energy Resources, our funding agency, for making this possible," said Bert Smith, superintendent of Ware County Schools.
The school will use the funds awarded to their Lego robotics team, healthcare science class, business computer science class, algebra I lab, physical science class, and agriculture class.
“We believe in building strong relationships and supporting the communities we serve, so being able to award this grant to Waycross Middle School is exciting,” said Mark Goebel, director of renewable energy development at NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, the world’s largest generator of wind and solar energy, and a world leader in battery storage. “We’re optimistic that this grant will ultimately encourage students to explore the great opportunities and benefits of a STEM career.”
This is the third year the STEM classroom makeover grants have been awarded. The NextEra Energy Foundation awarded STEM classroom makeover grants to 10 classrooms last year, with five allocated in its Florida Power & Light service area and five outside of Florida in the NextEra Energy Resources territory.
Pictured: Assistant Principal Dr. Erin Harvey accepts a check from Jarrett Daniels from NextEra Energy.
Pictured: Mayor Michael-Angelo James, Dr. Erin Harvey, Jarrett Daniels, Katrena Felder, and Principal David Hitt celebrate NextEra Energy's generous donation to Waycross Middle School.
