Board Approves Fall STEM Roundtable for High School Student Engagement

The Derry Area School District Board has taken a significant step towards enhancing STEM education by approving a proposal for a Fall 2025 STEM Roundtable. This initiative aims to gather key stakeholders, including educators and higher education partners, to co-design a pilot program that will enrich science education for students.

During the board meeting on August 7, 2025, a passionate presentation highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for students to engage in hands-on science experiences. The proposal emphasizes the need to build on existing educational frameworks and identify funding opportunities to support these initiatives. The goal is to have student-facing programs operational by winter or spring, fostering a love for science and encouraging students to see themselves in STEM fields.

Board members expressed strong support for the initiative, recognizing its alignment with the district's mission to enhance science education. The discussion also touched on the potential age groups that could benefit from the program, with a focus on high school students participating in real research projects.

In addition to the STEM Roundtable, the board discussed the successful implementation of the Amplify Technologies curriculum at Grandview Elementary, which is set to expand to grades 6 through 8 in the coming years. This curriculum aims to provide students with a more hands-on approach to science learning.

The board's approval of the STEM Roundtable marks a proactive step towards improving educational outcomes in the district. As the planning progresses, stakeholders are optimistic about the potential impact on students' engagement and success in science-related fields. The board looks forward to the upcoming discussions and the collaborative efforts that will shape the future of STEM education in the Derry Area School District.