Sapulpa Middle School receives STEM grant
Posted on 08/05/2021
Sapulpa Middle School(SPS) - Sapulpa Middle School will offer students a new, hands-on STEM program, Project Lead The Way (PLTW), starting in the 2021-22 school year. The opportunity was made possible through a partnership between Ardagh Group, a global supplier of infinitely-recyclable metal and glass consumer packaging, and PLTW, a non-profit organization offering transformative classroom and learning experiences for PreK-12th grade students. Ardagh is a major Sapulpa employer with a facility located at 1000 N. Mission.

Sapulpa Middle School will use grant funds to start the PLTW Gateway program, a key component of STEM education. The funds will help cover annual program fees, teacher professional development, and required classroom equipment and materials.

"We’re excited to transform our STEM program at Sapulpa Middle School, and this PLTW grant is helping us take a step forward," said Megan Cannon, Sapulpa Public Schools STEM Coordinator. "We believe all students should have access to high-quality STEM programs that allow them to take what they’re learning in science and math class and apply it to a real-world problem. Students will leave Sapulpa Middle School ready to pursue a STEM pathway of learning at our Junior High and High School, and beyond. We are thankful for Ardagh's continued support of Sapulpa students."

Through PLTW Gateway, Sapulpa Middle School’s students will develop a passion for and gain confidence in STEM subjects, while developing and applying critical language skills. Students will not only build knowledge and skills in areas like computer science, engineering, and biomedical science, but also develop essential skills such as problem solving, critical and creative thinking, communication, collaboration, and perseverance.

“PLTW is proud to partner with Sapulpa Middle School to inspire students to excel in math and science,” said Dr. Vince Bertram, PLTW President and CEO. “Together, we’re empowering young people to become inspired problem solvers. We’re passionate about equipping the next generation of students with the in-demand, real-world knowledge and skills they need to go further, whatever path they choose.”

Ardagh expects to invest $50 million over ten years to support education in its U.S. communities. PLTW is the first partnership in the initiative, and Ardagh made an initial investment of $12 million.

"Ardagh is a major employer in all of the communities where we operate," said Paul Coulson, Chairman and CEO, Ardagh Group. "We are proud to employ more than 6,000 skilled people in 24 locations. Social sustainability is at the core of our sustainability strategy. We recognize the critical role education, and access to education, plays in ensuring equal opportunities and in building successful, vibrant communities."

PLTW programs also include professional development opportunities for teachers, providing them the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Sapulpa Middle School is one of more than 12,000 schools taking part nationwide.