Verizon grant to help pre-engineering program

PROVIDENCE – A $20,000 Verizon Innovate grant has been awarded to the Providence Career and Technical Academy’s pre-engineering program.
The grant will bolster the program’s partnership with the University of Rhode Island, providing students with a broader range of materials, supporting visits to manufacturing sites, and connecting the class with guest speakers.
The one-time award is given to schools for projects in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math that take an innovative approach to teaching. The grant is focused on three goals: engaging students in STEM in new, innovative ways; helping teachers more effectively use technology; and creating more personalized learning environments to help students succeed.
The $20,000 award was announced on April 2 at the school. Attending were Mayor Jorge Elorza, Superintendent Dr. Susan Lusi, Verizon Regional Director of Government Affairs Michele Cinquegrano, school Principal Wobberson Torchon, Director of Career and Technical Education Luke Driver, and pre-engineering teacher Jesus Garcia Galvez.
“The pre-engineering program is a fantastic opportunity for students in Providence,” said Elorza, “and I thank Verizon for their generous support.”
Lusi noted that the grant will challenge teachers to educate in new and innovative ways.
“We cannot do the work of preparing our students for college and careers alone,” she added. “This is exactly the kind of support our district needs to give our students the knowledge and skills required in STEM fields. And, as we well know, some of the best-paying and most secure jobs of the future will require skills in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.”
In presenting the grant, Cinquegrano, of Verizon, said the program is meant to support deserving schools across the country, including the academy in Providence.
“The proposal submitted by the Providence Career and Technical Academy exemplifies the type of initiatives that will provide exposure to students around STEM fields, and also offers students hands-on, project-based learning opportunities that will help increase their interest and achievement in STEM,” she said.
Galvez said the award will enable students to put into practice the rapid prototyping and manufacturing theory studied in class, and apply it to the 3D models that students already created.

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