Manchester School secures $4,000 STEM grant

By Ed Pierce 

Global Partners LP awarded Manchester School in Windham
a $4,000 to fund programs that promote science, technology,
engineering and mathematics skills to students.
FILE PHOTO

It’s another step forward for educators and students at Manchester School in Windham and one that could be of benefit to the community for years to come.

Prominent U.S. energy supplier Global Partners LP, headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, has announced it has awarded eight grants of $4,000 each to schools in Maine to assist in funding programs that promote science, technology, engineering and mathematical skill development and Manchester School will be one of those recipients.

The company will supply the $4,000 STEM donation to Manchester School through a collaborative initiative with ExxonMobil’s Educational Alliance Program.

“Being involved in the Educational Alliance Program has been something we look forward to each year, and we’re happy to make investments in Maine communities where we live and work,” said Global Partners public affairs spokesperson Orion Breen. “We are so excited to help grow STEM programming for students in Maine.” 

Studies have shown that kids who are exposed to STEM concepts from a young age are more likely to show interest in pursuing STEM careers. With over 50 percent of the fastest-growing jobs related to STEM, it’s no wonder that competency in these areas is a strong indicator of future career success. 

But STEM education doesn’t just help students go directly into STEM careers. It also places emphasis on creative problem-solving, critical thinking, innovation, and teamwork to help students to develop the skills needed to succeed in any field.

The STEM grant will be delivered by a Global Partners territory manager to Manchester School. RSU 14, school administrators and teachers will then be encouraged to provide a series of new learning moments for students, something ExxonMobil calls “Aha Moments.”

Some of those will try to get students excited about everyday scientific concepts, creativity and STEM and to actively promote STEM-related activities at school and at home. The grant funding also is expected to give students access to high-quality learning tools, so that they can complete STEM tasks and assignments in and out of the classroom.

Danielle Donnini is the principal of Manchester School in Windham.<