The winner is Jeanne Ann Smith who had been awarded a $5,000 grant for “Mmm…STEM Education with littleBits & 3D Printing.” With the littleBits electronics and a 3D printer, students and teachers are given hands-on experience with electronics that require no soldering and they will be able to use and experience the new world of 3D printing. They will also learn CAD software so that they can fully utilize the 3D printer. This was not the first time Mrs. Smith has been named the Shining Star Award winner.
Tim Williams was a finalist for his 2,515 grant for “Sun Powered Growth.” This project is an expansion of a project already established at the GEFFE Greenhouse located on the campus of the Upper Elementary/Middle School. The expansion allows students to study and learn about solar energy as well as provide real-world application in sustainable energy and food production. Additionally, this provides opportunities for students of all ages to use the expanded facility for science fair research and ongoing projects. The final result of this project will be a completely energy independent section of the GEFFE Greenhouse providing food and showing that renewable energy coupled with sustainable food sources work.
Angie Bacon and Sylvie Kane were the other two finalists for their innovative, 4,320 grant for “The DaVinci (QR) Code: Using QR Codes and Mini iPads to Enhance Problem Solving.” QR (Quick Response) codes are being used at the Lower Elementary and Middle School to engage students with the use of technology. QR codes are posted throughout the schools requiring seventh graders and second graders to work together to solve a variety of math problems aligned with Common Core standards.