The Tennessee STEM Innovation Network with legislative support has made a bold move leading the country in making a supplemental STEM career awareness curriculum available at no cost to all middle schools in the state. The online technology, Learning Blade, is from Chattanooga-based Thinking Media and introduces STEM opportunities in a unique format demonstrating the benefits of STEM careers for society. Learning Blade was a recent finalist of the Chamber’s Spirit of Innovation awards.
To review the progress of this state effort, Dr. Kathleen Airhart, deputy commissioner and chief operating officer of the TN Department of Education will visit two schools in Chattanooga. Accompanying her will be Wes Hall of Battelle Education and the Director of Tennessee STEM Innovation Network.
This is an opportunity to feature positive things that are going on in the classroom and to show how a Chattanooga technology company is having an impact on the workforce of tomorrow. Learning Blade's effective technology has proven to increase interest in STEM careers with over 70% of participating students indicating that they learn about new careers and inspiring over 35% to be more likely to consider STEM as a future career.
Additional partners in this project include STEMconnector, Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tennessee Association of Manufacturers, Hope Street Group and Lightweight Innovation for Tomorrow (LIFT).
Dr. Airhart's schedule on Monday (Times are approximate.):
Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy from 10-10:45 am
Ooltewah Middle School from 11:15 am-noon
Thinking Media Office – 12:30-1:30 pm – 340 Frazier Ave.