STEAM
Goal 3: Engage Students in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math
STEAM
These subjects are at the heart of what has made Aiken County grow and thrive over the past 75 years. To increase career awareness and readiness in these fields, PEP will partner with local businesses to improve STEAM programs in the schools.
STEM Day
Public Education Partners provides resources to Aiken County Schools’ STEM Days/ Nights by collaborating with partners to bring industry professionals into the classroom. Board members and other experts facilitate hands-on STEM activities that introduce, supplement, and reinforce grade-level science and math concepts.
National Math and Science Initiative
Under the fiscal management of Public Education Partners, local companies provide sponsorships to support NMSI in Aiken County schools. Funds are used to train and certify teachers to teach Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and to create a reward system for educators and students to support STEM learning, a critical need here in Aiken County and across the country.
Garcia Orchestra Festival
In 2005, Carlos and Karen Garcia, founders of RCS Corporation, made a contribution to Public Education Partners as a five-year effort to start and support stringed instrument music in Aiken County middle and high schools. Today, Mr. and Mrs. Garcia continue their annual support of stringed instrument music as the Signature Sponsor of the annual Garcia Orchestra Festival and award an annual $1000 scholarship to a senior participating in the festival.
This year 250 6th -12th grade students participated in stringed instrument music programs from across Aiken County and across ability levels, as well as high school band students interested in acquiring experience in a symphonic setting.
