10th grade student selected for Summer Stem Program

Congratulations to Alyssia Bleau, a 10th grade Algebra 2 student who was selected to participate in the ARC/ORNL Summer Stem Program. Normally the program is held at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee, but this year it will be virtual due to COVID.

Established in 1990, the ARC Oak Ridge Summer STEM Program is a residential, hands-on learning experience for Appalachia’s middle and high school students, as well as high school teachers in STEM-related fields. Hosted by Oak Ridge Associated Universities in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, this program is a gateway to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in the Appalachian Region. Many participants come from economically distressed counties and often gain their first exposure to applied science and STEM education through this experience.

All participants work with award-winning scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, one of the largest U.S. Department of Energy research facilities in the United States. High school and middle school students conduct guided group science, math, and computer science technology research projects, while high school teachers work with science practitioners to develop STEM-related curriculum. The program culminates in a graduation ceremony where participants showcase their work.