STEM Initiatives
Benton High School is currently working on several initiatives to support STEM at our school. Several of them are listed below:
  • Math Department R-cubed Lab: The BHS math department has submitted a $100,000 8G grant to obtain a math lab containing desktop computers and some of the most powerful mathematics software, among other technology, to promote Rigor, Retention, and Relevance in math classes.
  • Development of an Engineering Application Course: Math teacher Marvin Nelson will be working with the Louisiana Tech Engineering School to build an introductory course in Engineering to be offered at Benton High starting in 2009-10.
  • Development of a Computer Programming Course: Math teacher Stewart Thompson will develop a computer programming course to be offered starting in the 2009-10 school year. The course will be modeled after an introductory college-level computer programming course.
  • Exposure to STEM related careers: BHS math and science teachers will begin inviting STEM professionals to discuss their careers with students.
 
"Why is science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education so important and what must we do? The global economy has "flattened" the world in terms of skills and technology. A new workforce of problem-solvers, innovators, and inventors who are self-reliant and able to think logically is one of the critical foundations that drive a state economy's innovation capacity. State K-12 (kindergarten through grade 12) education systems, with the support of postsecondary education, the business sector, foundations, and governments, must ensure that 1) all students graduate from high school with the necessary science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) competencies to become this workforce; and 2) a greater number of students graduate from high school as potential professionals in STEM fields." - National Governors’ Association