Dixon Public Schools logo (Photo provided by Dixon School District)
Reagan Middle School in Dixon is proud to announce the opening of its new Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation STEM Center, made possible through a grant from ComEd and its parent company, Exelon Corporation.
The Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation is dedicated to its mission of “Transform Communities. Change Kids’ Lives.” Through this partnership, Reagan Middle School students will gain access to a state-of-the-art STEM learning environment designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and innovation while preparing students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, according to a news release.
The new STEM Center includes coding platforms, robotics, drones, electronics, engineering kits, and 3D printing technology. Teachers have already completed professional development on the equipment, allowing students to begin utilizing these exciting learning opportunities immediately as the school year begins.
“This donation gives our students access to tools and experiences that truly bring STEM learning to life,” said Chris Bishop, technology teacher at Reagan Middle School. “The equipment will provide meaningful hands-on learning opportunities while inspiring the next generation of innovators, problem solvers, and leaders.”
He said the district is deeply grateful to the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, ComEd, and Exelon Corporation for investing in the future of Reagan Middle School students and creating opportunities that will positively impact them for years to come.
“One of our greatest responsibilities as educators is preparing students for a future that continues to evolve in remarkable ways,” Reagan Middle School Principal Matthew Magnafici said. “The Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation STEM Center provides our students with authentic, hands-on experiences that build critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and perseverance skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, ComEd, and Exelon Corporation for believing in our students and investing in opportunities that will inspire them to explore, create, and discover new possibilities. This is more than a STEM Center; it is an investment in the future of our students and our community.”
The addition of the STEM Center aligns with Dixon Public Schools’ ongoing commitment to providing innovative learning experiences that prepare students for success in college, careers, and life. By engaging students in real-world problem-solving and emerging technologies, Reagan Middle School continues to expand opportunities that foster curiosity, innovation, and lifelong learning, according to the release.
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