The journey to becoming a two-time designated school
STEM and STE(A)M education provides an opportunity for each child to discover and learn, pursue a fulfilling post-high school path, and become a resilient, lifelong learner. STEM and STE(A)M education are an integrated approach to learning where rigorous academic concepts are learned through real-world, project-based experiences. Students use science, technology, engineering, arts/humanities, and mathematics concepts to make authentic connections between school, community, and work experiences. The Tennessee STEM and STE(A)M School Designation was created to award and recognize schools that are exemplars of this work. The list of current STEM Designated Schools across the state can be found here.
Once a school has earned designation, that certification is valid for a period of 5 years. Schools are required to reapply for STEM or STE(A)M School Designation in order to verify that the primary focus for learning remains centered around STEM and/or STE(A)M principles.
To recertify, eligible schools must demonstrate advanced knowledge, skills, practice, and growth over time in the STEM or STE(A)M designation attributes within the STEM/STE(A)M designation rubric.
Purpose
STEM and STE(A)M education provides an opportunity for each child to discover and learn, pursue a fulfilling post-high school path, and become a resilient, lifelong learner. STEM and STE(A)M education are an integrated approach to learning where rigorous academic concepts are learned through real-world, project-based experiences. Students use science, technology, engineering, arts/humanities, and mathematics concepts to make authentic connections between school, community, and work experiences. The Tennessee STEM and STE(A)M School Designation was created to award and recognize schools that are exemplars of this work.