Island Pacific Academy is pleased to announce that it is a recipient in a multi-year $2.2 million grant program to expand science, math, engineering and technology education for its students. IPA is one of only 12 school s in the State of Hawaii to be selected. The State of Hawaii, in partnership with Project Lead the Way (PLTW) and USA Funds, announced the initiative earlier this year as an effort to increase the state’s innovation economy and workforce. The program strives to increase students’ readiness for college and careers.
“I am very proud of how far we have come with our Technology program over the past three years,” commented Kip Cummings, Secondary Principal. “This grant award will allow us the opportunity to significantly enhance our computer science and engineering programs and really help our students become competitive in these fields.”
Grant funds will cover expenses such as program fees, teacher training at the University of Hawaii – West Oahu, and classroom equipment and supplies. “This is a terrific opportunity for Island Pacific Academy to grow the amazing programs that we already have in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics,” added Michelle Bradley, Secondary Science Department Chair. “Teachers staying current on training and the resources they use in these fields is key to the success of these programs at IPA. Our students will be the ultimate beneficiary and we couldn’t be happier.”
PLTW is a nonprofit organization that provides transformative learning experiences for K-12 students and teachers across all 50 states. USA Funds is providing a $2.2 million grant to support the program.
STEM education helps students learn critical skills for the 21st century such as teamwork, planning and problem solving. Kailer Suerth (’20) observes his vehicle design come to life as Robotics Instructor Weyland Bailey looks on.