Kalamazoo RESA one of three recipients to receive $900,000 of $2.7 million award to expand STEM school programs

LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced on Monday, March 14, that Kalamazoo RESA, Grand Valley State University along with Washtenaw ISD will each be receiving about $900,000, or $2.7 million total.

The funding will go towards supporting the K-12 expansion of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM education.

In a statement, Governor Whitmer said, “STEM education opportunities are critical as we prepare young Michiganders for high-tech, high-skill careers that will serve as the backbone of Michigan’s economy. These investments are critical to ensure our schools have the funds to help each and every Michigander reach their full potential. And in my budget recommendation for next year, I have proposed the biggest per-student investment ever and $1 billion for school construction and renovation so we can keep funding and building more computer labs, classrooms, and science facilities to help our kids pursue their potential.”

“Exposure to engineering and technology changed my life, and I know the role it can play in sparking imagination and molding students into leaders,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist.  “Strong STEM experiences prepare students for the high-skilled jobs of the future and lay the foundation for prosperity in our communities. When we help our students explore the world of STEM, we make an investment that keeps Michigan at the forefront of scientific and technological advancement and builds on our state’s tradition of innovation. Governor Whitmer and I are grateful for the MiSTEM Advisory Council’s work to make a difference for our students and our economy.”