We’re excited to announce that two of our middle schools have received grant funding from the Ohio STEM Learning Network. Funded by Battelle, these K-12 STEM grants support innovative classroom projects in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in Ohio.

At Groveport Madison Middle School South, Mrs. Michelle Centers’ eighth grade classroom was awarded $2,500 to investigate plant reproduction through hydroponics. During their unit on sexual and asexual reproduction, students will design plans for growing herbs, vegetables, and flowers indoors. They will build their systems and care for their plants. This project will not only demonstrate key concepts of plant reproduction but also give students ownership of their learning and allow them to enjoy the produce as a result.

Seventh grade science at Middle School South was awarded $5,000 to visualize the human body's process for metabolizing food. Students will use technology to explore the digestive system and demonstrate how food is converted into energy. They will conduct research, collaborate, and present new visualizations for the process. This project will help develop essential software and engineering skills. Using a multidisciplinary approach allows students to practically connect different scientific fields.

Additionally, at Groveport Madison Middle School Central, Mrs. Andrea Taynor was awarded a $5,000 grant for her career tech and coding classes. This funding will support student exploration of STEM and computer science career paths, helping them see how their interests and aptitudes can lead to a variety of rewarding careers.