To the editor:

STEM, or Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, is an important buzzword today. The national emphasis on STEM can be traced back to low college graduation rates in all manner of engineering and technology degrees. At the present graduation rates, there are more jobs in STEM fields than qualified graduates to fill them.

This information was not lost to the Bainbridge Schools Foundation and in 2011 funded the Bainbridge Island STEM Initiative.

This targeted approach to funding has already begun to make a difference for our students on Bainbridge Island. Through the grant, teachers are given every opportunity to innovate in their classroom, obtain specialized STEM training and develop new programs that are engaging students in new and innovative ways.

Whether it’s Lego Mindstorm robots in sixth grade or 3-D printers in the middle and high school, our students are beginning to see how STEM learning plays a critical role in their lives.

The BSF Grant has helped the district focus on introducing improved STEM learning in classrooms. This initiative has only just begun and there is so much more to do. “Moving the dial” on STEM requires building sustainable programs that offer all of our students every opportunity to choose STEM courses and careers.

Please consider donating to this and many other forward looking Bainbridge Schools Foundation initiatives during our Clickathon campaign (Oct. 15-31) at www.bainbridgeschoolsfoundation.org.

GREGORY J. MONCADA

Stem Coordinator

Bainbridge Island School District