State Senator Greg Reed (R-Jasper), President Pro Tempore of the Alabama Senate, Representative Matt Woods (R-Jasper), and Representative Tim Wadsworth (R-Arley) announced funding awarded through the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) to Bankhead Middle School that will enhance their Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs.
The funds awarded will be used to renovate existing space and construct an addition to Bankhead Middle School in efforts to enhance the established and successful STEM program.
“Children are gifts from God and the future of our great state,” said Senator Greg Reed. “Our schools do a remarkable job educating and preparing our students with the skills needed to have impactful and meaningful careers. As legislators, we want to make certain that the children in our schools have the necessary resources to learn and grow to their fullest potential. Bankhead Middle School, its administration and staff, and Assistant Principal Amber Parsons have all been instrumental in developing a first class and renowned robotics program in Walker County. I am incredibly proud that this grant award will help students with an interest in STEM education further their passion and knowledge, and I want to thank Governor Ivey, my legislative colleagues Representative Matt Woods, Representative Tim Wadsworth, and ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell for their support in guaranteeing these resources were awarded to Bankhead Middle School.”
The success of the robotics program and its ability to give students real world experience in coding and technical design and fabrication was a major factor in the expansion of the STEM Program at Bankhead Middle School.
“I am incredibly grateful for this $1,000,000 grant that will transform Bankhead Middle School’s STEM program into a cutting-edge learning environment for our students,” said Representative Matt Woods. “This will allow more students to achieve the necessary skills that lead to high-demand jobs of the future. Securing this grant was one of my top priorities, I want to thank Senator Reed and the Bankhead Middle School administration for their diligent effort to make this a reality.”
“We are incredibly grateful for this grant and the support from Governor Ivey and Director Boswell,” said Representative Tim Wadsworth. “This funding will make a significant impact on the STEM programs and allow Walker County school system to provide our students with even more opportunities to excel in these important fields.”
School officials are excited about the opportunity the enhancements and additions will provide to students interested in STEM.
“I would like to thank everyone that made this possible: the City of Cordova, Mayor Jeremy Pate, Renee Sides, the Walker County Board of Education, and the faculty and staff of Bankhead Middle School,” said Amber Freeman, Principal of Bankhead Middle School. “It is a great opportunity for students in all Walker County Schools. This facility will provide a venue for students to gain the necessary skills and credentials to fill the high demand STEM jobs in our communities. This will lead to economic growth in Walker County.”
