Bowdon Elementary School, Central High School, Ithica Elementary School and Temple High School have been recertified as STEM campuses by the National Institute for STEM Education.
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 nationally STEM certified.
“STEM has been a priority for us in Carroll County since 2018,” Carroll County Schools Superintendent Scott Cowart said. “We emphasize future-focused thinking and skills at all of our schools, 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.”
Including these recertified schools, 17 Carroll County Schools are certified as national STEM campuses.
NISE offers STEM Teaching Certification and supports educators in their efforts to create STEM-based instruction. Eighteen teachers at the four schools have earned their National STEM Teacher Certification. Upon completion of the required 38 indicators, educators are better equipped to not only academically challenge students but also prepare them for college and career readiness.
“Our teachers are champions of innovation, igniting a love of learning in our students,” IES Principal Michael Browning said. “This recertification has inspired them to push the boundaries of education and continue our legacy of high achievement."
The certification process, born from STEM professional development and curriculum at Rice University, integrates the latest research and best practices in STEM, 21st-century learning, and professional development.
“In Carroll County, we are relentless in our pursuit of providing students with opportunities to excel,” CHS Principal Kelly Edwards of Central High School said. “This recertification reaffirms our dedication to preparing students for success beyond high school."
Utilizing a cutting-edge, competency-based online platform, the NISE empowers educators to showcase their proficiency across 15 STEM teacher actions and 28 campus indicators. By embracing a self-paced, mentor-led approach, NISE certifies teachers, campuses, and districts, setting new standards in STEM education.
“At Bowdon, we are dedicated to nurturing innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in our students,” BES Principal Ginny Edwards said. “Our national STEM recertification reflects the tireless efforts of our teachers and our enduring commitment to excellence."
A premier organization for national STEM certification, NISE is a support system for campuses seeking to improve their implementation of STEM practices. These schools have been successful in continuing to implement STEM Action Plans towards becoming an even stronger STEM campus.
“Our National STEM recertification underscores our commitment to excellence and empowers our students with cutting-edge skills,” THS Principal Seth Rogers said. “Together, we are shaping future leaders and fostering an innovative community.”
Teachers earning their National STEM Certificate are
From Bowdon Elementary:
Traci Rainwater
Amanda Ross
Meredith Stone
From Central High School
Ethan Caldwell
Glendon Genty
Stephanie Masters
Harlie Wainright
Megan Wooten
From Ithica Elementary School
Catherine Birdsall
Joseph Bogozan
Lyndsey Buterbaugh
Katie Carter
Tiffany Jarrett
From Temple High School
Lydia Clarke
John Garner
Jayme Howell
Adam Scurr
Holly Thompson