A Murrah High School JROTC STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Team won the Mississippi State University (MSU) 2015 STEM Fall Project. The members of the winning team from Murrah were cadets Dajah Barnes, Reshunna Shelby, Chyna Stewart, Alexis Warner, Alexus Stamps and Marquez Wilkerson, the team’s mentor/coach. All seven JPS high schools were represented by at least one team. Murrah, however, entered two teams into the District-wide competition. The winning team, along with selected cadets from all seven JPS JROTC units, was treated to an all-expenses paid trip to MSU on Saturday, December 5, 2015, for a full day of STEM activities and orientation to the college environment.
STEM teams analyzed and presented their findings on how energy and innovation can produce resources that can be utilized in lifestyle and industry for this year’s project themed “THE POWER OF AIR.” The project infused education and entrepreneurship in a way that complements the elements of the TECHJXN innovation economy movement. "One of the major challenges facing the nation is the need for greater emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education in our public schools," stated COL Paul Willis, Director of JPS JROTC. "To help address this need, the U.S. Army Cadet Command contracted with MSU to provide a summer STEM residential program and a fall semester learning experience on behalf of Jackson Public Schools JROTC. The outcome of this five-year partnership has definitely increased cadets’ awareness of STEM academic programs and career fields; inspired academic excellence; increased the desire to continue education beyond high school; increased the desire to pursue STEM-related career opportunities; and enhanced personal leadership and character development. The yearly STEM project competition has proven to be a great motivator." |
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