By: Nicholas Osborn, The Marshall News Messenger | Read it >
Waskom ISD recently announced the district will be providing an opportunity for K-8 grade students and staff to participate in the Texas Mobile STEM laboratory.
The Texas Mobile STEM laboratory is made available to districts through a grant program from the Texas Education Agency (TEA). WISD Dyslexia and GT Coordinator Sheri Evans spearheaded the application of the grant, earning the opportunity to be the only district in Region 7 to offer access to the laboratory in the 2024-25 academic year.
“Waskom ISD is thrilled to host the Texas Mobile STEM laboratory,” said Evans. “We eagerly anticipate bringing this enriching experience to our students, families, and staff. Through hands-on projects and critical thinking, this program promises immense benefits for our district.”
“We hope it sparks creativity among students, families and teachers, paving the way for more such opportunities in the future,” continued Evans.
The Texas Mobile STEM laboratory integrates content knowledge which is aligned with TEKS to work alongside school districts across the state. This provides access to curriculum, resources, equipment and on-site support from the mobile laboratory staff to teachers of the district in an effort to present new opportunities to students.
Through a partnership with Learning Undefeated, the mobile lab is able to provide what is described as engaging, hands-on educational experiences which blend career and skills education. The laboratory is self-sufficient and features research-grade science and technology equipment, chemical resistant surfaces, integrated technology, augmented reality, and game-based learning, full-time support staff, wheelchair-accessible entrances and exists, and flexible outdoor space.
During the recent Texas 88th Legislative Session, the program received additional funding to expand the mobile laboratories to a fleet of nine units, which are set to begin operating in the 2024-25 year. Schools who offer classes to grades K-8 are eligible, with at least one visit in each region for schools in rural areas demonstrating high economic need.
The Waskom Elementary and Middle School campuses will be the only schools in Region 7 offering the opportunity for the Texas Mobile STEM laboratory for the upcoming 2024-25 academic year. Superintendent Rae Ann Patty thanked Evans for her work in helping to provide the opportunity to students of the district.
“Thank you to Sheri Evans for applying for this grant,” said Patty. “This opportunity will be available only to Waskom in all of Region 7 for the 24-25 school year. Waskom has dedicated employees like Mrs. Evans who work tirelessly to bring opportunities like these to our students!”
