This grant provided funding to Jackson County Schools to establish STEM labs and digital learning classrooms in the district. The project was expected to integrate digital learning into instructional practice for all middle and high school students and to implement STEM education programs that were aligned with employment needs of area businesses and career pathways at Southwestern Community College (SCC) and Western Carolina University. The project was part of the Smoky Mountains Regional STEM initiative started in Swain County by Swain County Schools and SCC. Programs focused on the fields of advanced manufacturing, healthcare and computer information technology. The project was expected to provide professional development for teachers in project-based instruction and the effective use of technology; equipment to establish school-based STEM labs; technology for students and teachers; formal and informal STEM learning opportunities for students; and coordination of region-wide STEM efforts among K-12, post-secondary and industry partners. Golden LEAF funds were used for professional development, 1:1 devices, 3D printers, robotics devices, and supplies.
