BCS Advantage Magazine Summer 2016 | Page 10

Duke Energy Powers STEM Elementary Education in BCS with $ 50K Initiative

Duke Energy Powers STEM Elementary Education in BCS with $ 50K Initiative

The intersection of technical capabilities with communication , creativity , critical thinking , collaboration , problem solving , and teamwork – STEM – it ’ s changing the world !
Supporting effective education programs and initiatives that emphasize science , technology , engineering and math ( STEM ) is a critical focus for Duke Energy . By fostering a growing interest in the STEM fields for students , our communities will continue growing and producing skilled workers who bring new thinking and innovation to our lives .
“ STEM education is so much more than teaching technical subjects ,” said Jason Walls , Local Government and Community Relations manager for Duke Energy in Asheville . “ STEM education teaches students to be critical thinkers , how to work as a team to solve problems through collaboration , and positions them to be successful leaders in our community .”
Over the last three years , Duke Energy has been able to provide more than $ 200K to Buncombe County Schools to support and advance STEM-related efforts including : Project Lead the Way , equipment funding for Nesbitt Discovery Academy and targeted programs to help foster a love of STEM in middle and elementary schools . Most recently , Duke Energy provided $ 50K to ensure STEM-related educational opportunities at each of the elementary schools in Buncombe County . “ Duke Energy is delighted to support Buncombe County Schools in their quest to create incredible innovators and leaders in our community ,” Walls added .
STEM-related efforts touch virtually every school in Buncombe County , where principals and school leaders foster efforts at their respective schools . Success doesn ’ t happen by accident . It requires vision , dedication and drive from teachers , administrators and students .
Buncombe County Schools have found a winning combination .
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