AUSTIN (KXAN) — Texas students are set to benefit from a significant boost in STEM educational opportunities thanks to a generous $2.9 million grant from the Texas Education Agency. Learning Undefeated, a leading organization in STEM education, is spearheading this initiative to bring hands-on learning experiences to students across the state.
Expanding Reach with Mobile STEM Labs
Since 2020, Learning Undefeated has been operating a mobile STEM lab that travels to various schools in Texas, providing interactive STEM activities for students. With the grant funding, the organization plans to expand its fleet to nine mobile labs, significantly increasing its outreach to hundreds of schools annually.
The Need for Expansion
Janeé Pelletier, Chief Marketing Officer of Learning Undefeated, highlighted the overwhelming demand from teachers for visits from the mobile labs. With only one lab available prior to the grant award, the organization struggled to meet the requests from schools across the state. Pelletier expressed excitement about the opportunity to build a comprehensive program that can cater to the diverse needs of students in kindergarten through eighth grade.
Diverse STEM Activities for Students
Learning Undefeated offers a range of 16 different activities on the mobile STEM labs, covering subjects such as math, reading, engineering, and scientific methods. These activities are tailored to different age groups, ensuring that students receive engaging and educational experiences. For example, kindergarteners might learn about building structures to withstand hurricane-level winds, inspired by the classic tale of the “Three Little Pigs.”
Empowering Students Through Hands-On Learning
Pelletier emphasized the importance of hands-on learning in developing students’ problem-solving skills and fostering creativity. By challenging students to design, build, test, and iterate on their solutions, the mobile labs aim to instill a sense of curiosity and resilience in young learners. These skills are not only beneficial for future STEM careers but also for life in general.
Focus on Underserved Communities
While Learning Undefeated serves schools across Texas, the organization places a special emphasis on reaching out to rural communities with limited access to field trip opportunities. By bringing the mobile labs to these underserved areas, Learning Undefeated aims to bridge the gap in educational resources and provide all students with equal access to hands-on STEM learning experiences.
Future Expansion Plans
Currently, two additional mobile labs are in the process of being manufactured, with a projected rollout in January. The goal is to have a complete fleet of nine labs operational by August 2025. This expansion will enable Learning Undefeated to operate regionally, maximizing the time spent in classrooms and minimizing travel time across the state.
Impact on Students’ Future Success
Pelletier stressed the importance of reaching students at an early age to cultivate their interest in STEM fields and develop essential skills for the future. By instilling confidence, curiosity, perseverance, and resilience in students, Learning Undefeated aims to prepare them for success in STEM-based careers and beyond. The organization believes that nurturing innovative and creative individuals will drive progress and lead to groundbreaking discoveries in the years to come.
Support for Teachers and Schools
Learning Undefeated provides resources online for Texas teachers interested in requesting a visit from the mobile STEM labs. These resources aim to support educators in enhancing their students’ learning experiences and promoting a love for STEM subjects. More information about the organization and its programs can be found online.
In Conclusion
The $2.9 million grant from the Texas Education Agency represents a major milestone for STEM education in Texas, opening up new opportunities for students to engage with hands-on learning experiences. With the expansion of Learning Undefeated’s mobile labs, hundreds of schools across the state will have access to innovative STEM activities that inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a passion for learning. By investing in the next generation of innovators and problem solvers, Texas is paving the way for a brighter future filled with endless possibilities in the world of STEM.
