In its first year having a competitive Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP), two Grayson County Middle School students have been recognized at the state level.
Isaac Dowell placed second in an Art on Demand Photoshop project, going head-to-head in timed competition with more than two dozen students from around the state. Victoria Lofgren was recognized for her role in the Girls Who Code program and a potential Maker Space concept for GCMS next year.
According to District Technology Coordinator Jerrod Graybeal, STLP gives students an opportunity to “use the knowledge learned in our schools around the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math to solve a need in the school or community.”
The STLP movement at GCMS started with a Cougar Coders club led by district Technology Integration Specialist DeeDee Webb. Both Dowell and Lofgren actively grew with the program, learning and leading their way to State. Art teacher Stephanie Brey was instrumental in guiding Dowell through more advanced art technology.
The Lawler Elementary team, led by Samantha McGrew and Yevette Kopp, also earned a berth at state, competing in a Level 2 Project, Quick Recall, Bench Challenge, Newscast, Website Design, Help Desk Support, and Photo On-Demand.
The regional and state competitions “open our students up to new ideas, allowing them to build friendships with students from around the state, both vital skills to succeeding in a global economy,” Graybeal said.
“Participation in STLP programs and competitive events also builds on components of our Profile of a Graduate, as students develop the problem solving and creative risk-taking skills that enable them to persist in meeting their goals,” he added.
STLP programs will continue to grow throughout the district, as more students take up the STLP challenge, especially those with an eye on tech careers.
(Photo: GCMS STPL high achievers Isaac Dowell and Victoria Lofgren)
By Grayson County Schools
