TVA STEM grants help deliver hands-on experiences

Two Franklin Special District schools are benefitting from a grant program sponsored by the Tennessee Valley Authority, enabling each school to purchase materials, and resources that enhance the development of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education projects with their students.

Johnson Elementary School used its $3,500 grant to purchase materials and resources for a composting program the school begun this year under the direction of library media specialist Dea Peach. “We are excited to teach our students the importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility,” Peach said. Using hands-on activities, students will learn how organic waste can be transformed into nutrient-rich soil, reinforcing science concepts in a fun and engaging way. “This contribution from TVA will go a long way in helping us teach our students that these lifelong habits can contribute to a more sustainable future.”

Poplar Grove Middle is using its $3,500 grant to buy curricular materials and support resources that help guide students through the process of creating and launching a business in project-based units of study. Students in grades 5-8 have the goal of presenting their product at the Franklin Special District's Performing Arts Center Fundraiser this semester and entering their products in the Invention Convention Competition at MTSU. “Students are learning core business principles and entrepreneurial skills that will help them work as their own boss,” said STEM teacher Deb Shuler. “Using this grant-funded curriculum, students learn the difference between services and products and the difference between digital and physical goods and services.”

“We know STEM teachers across the region are inspiring students to become the workforce of the future, and that’s why it’s so important for TVA to continue supporting this grant program,” said Jeff Lyash, TVA president and CEO. “Providing additional resources to schools helps provide essential hands-on learning programs that equip students with skills that will help them be successful in whatever they choose to do in life.”

The competitive STEM classroom grant program is operated in partnership with the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network, managed by the Battelle organization. This year, the program received 647 grant applications, and 342 were selected for funding. Since 2018, TVA/BVI has provided nearly $8 million in STEM grants supporting over 730,000 students. “Bicentennial Volunteers, Inc. has a reputation for giving back to the community. BVI is proud to partner with TVA in empowering teachers to provide hands-on learning opportunities for students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math,” said Kathy Black, president of BVI. “We believe that by enriching their educational experiences, we are helping create lifelong learners and building the workforce of tomorrow.”

The grants were awarded in a competitive process, and preference was given to grant applications that explored TVA’s primary areas of focus: environment, energy, economic development, and community problem-solving. Any school that receives its power from a local power company served by TVA was eligible to apply.