Suffolk Public Schools announces Virginia's first elementary STEM Academy at Booker T Washington

The Suffolk City Public School Board meeting on April 10, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in local education with the introduction of the STEM Academy at Booker T. Washington Elementary School. This initiative marks a pioneering step as it becomes the only elementary lab school in Virginia, aiming to enhance STEM education for young learners.

Dr. Akima Branch, the Chief Academic Officer, along with her team, provided an in-depth update on the academy's development. The STEM Academy is designed to integrate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into the standard curriculum, utilizing the Project Lead the Way framework. This approach not only prepares students for future educational pathways but also fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on learning experiences.

The academy will officially open its doors in August 2025, serving 120 students across grades K-5. The enrollment process has already generated significant interest, with over 300 applications received. A lottery system was implemented to ensure a fair selection process, allowing students from both within and outside the Suffolk Public Schools system to apply. This inclusivity aligns with the lab school’s mission to serve a diverse student body and promote equitable learning opportunities.

Key components of the curriculum will include design thinking and interdisciplinary approaches, ensuring that students can connect their learning to real-world applications. The academy will also feature innovative classroom designs that encourage collaboration and creativity, equipped with modern technology such as 3D printers.

Board members expressed enthusiasm for the project, recognizing its potential to revolutionize education in the community. They emphasized the importance of fostering a love for learning at an early age and the positive impact this initiative could have on students' futures.

As the STEM Academy prepares for its launch, the Suffolk City Public Schools community looks forward to witnessing the transformative effects of this groundbreaking educational model. The board plans to continue monitoring the academy's progress and hopes to expand similar initiatives in the future, reinforcing Suffolk's commitment to educational excellence.