This grant provided funding to Halifax County Schools (HCS) for a STEM education and workforce development initiative. The initiative gave the Halifax middle school students early access to real-world learning experiences centered around alternative energy and around topics relevant to local employers such as Cummins, PCB, Lowe’s, Reser’s and McLane. This initiative helped expose students to STEM careers and identify career pathways in the region. The project also connected students with opportunities to earn community college credentials before graduating high school. Golden LEAF funds were used for STEM equipment and materials for two middle schools and professional development for teachers.