Akron Public Schools earn prestigious STEM mentoring award from White House

Confidence and Achievement Take Center Stage at Akron Board of Education Meeting

At the recent Akron Board of Education meeting, student confidence and educational excellence were the highlights, showcasing the remarkable achievements of local students and educators. A standout moment came when a student shared their journey toward public speaking confidence, crediting support from peers and programs like Always Climbing. "Every time I see you, I get the impression of someone who is more confident," the student noted, emphasizing the importance of finding familiar faces in intimidating settings.

The meeting also celebrated a significant accolade for Akron Public Schools, as Member Sikes announced that the district was recognized on the floor of the U.S. Congress. This honor was bestowed upon the Science and Health Department, led by Katrina Joanna O'Neil and Krista Galloway, for earning the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in STEM Mentoring. This award, given to only five organizations nationwide, highlights the department's commitment to fostering diversity in science and technology through mentorship.

Sikes expressed pride in the district's mission to prepare each child for success, noting that the department has provided STEM opportunities to over 50,000 diverse scholars. "Their focus on a three-tiered approach allows all levels of our community to get involved in educating and mentoring our students to success," Sikes stated.

The meeting concluded with a round of applause for the student and the educators, reinforcing the community's commitment to nurturing confidence and excellence in education. As Akron Public Schools continues to shine on both local and national stages, the future looks bright for its students and educators alike.