May 22, 2025

Sparklight Grants Funding for STEM Education at Beaufort Academy

News Summary

Sparklight has awarded Beaufort Academy a $2,500 grant as part of its annual ‘Dream Bigger’ campaign, aimed at enhancing STEM education with programmable robots. This initiative will prepare middle school students with essential skills in coding and problem-solving, fostering creativity and critical thinking. The grant reflects a commitment to improving educational experiences and engaging students in technology-driven learning environments.

Beaufort, South Carolina – Sparklight has awarded a $2,500 grant to Beaufort Academy as part of its 7th annual “Dream Bigger” social media campaign. This funding is designated for the purchase of programmable robots, which will enhance STEM education for middle school students at the academy. The robots are designed to equip students with essential skills in coding, problem-solving, and collaboration, all of which are critical in today’s technology-driven workforce.

The initiative supports Beaufort Academy’s goal of preparing students for future careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields while fostering an engaging and technology-oriented learning environment. With this grant, the academy aims to blend playful learning with vital skills that students will need in a competitive job market.

According to Jesse Davidson, a science and math teacher at Beaufort Academy, the grant represents a significant step in building a community effort toward enriching students’ educational experiences. The programmable Sphero robots that will be acquired with the funds offer students hands-on coding opportunities, making the learning process interactive and enjoyable.

Jane Shanely, Senior Director for Sparklight in the Southeast Region, shared her enthusiasm for the company’s involvement in supporting Beaufort Academy’s initiative to bolster STEM education. Sparklight is committed to empowering students to utilize technology for social good, which aligns with their broader mission of fostering brighter futures for students and their communities.

Impact on Education

The grant allows Beaufort Academy to introduce state-of-the-art technology into their curriculum. The programmable robots will aid in teaching fundamental coding languages and techniques, ensuring that students are better prepared for careers that increasingly rely on technological competence. This hands-on experience with robotics not only piques students’ interest in STEM but also enhances their critical thinking abilities through practical applications.

Community Engagement

This initiative by Sparklight not only provides financial assistance but also signifies a larger community engagement effort. Schools have increasingly sought innovative resources to engage students in STEM subjects, and grants such as this are vital for allowing institutions like Beaufort Academy to bridge the gap between traditional teaching methods and modern technological advancements.

Background on Sparklight’s “Dream Bigger” Campaign

Sparklight’s “Dream Bigger” social media campaign aims to support educational institutions and initiatives throughout the Southeast. Now in its seventh year, the campaign has awarded numerous grants to schools, helping them enhance their educational offerings and promote student engagement in essential skills. By focusing on education, Sparklight demonstrates its commitment to building a better future for the next generation through technology and community involvement.

In summary, the $2,500 grant from Sparklight to Beaufort Academy stands as a promising development in the educational landscape, aimed at enriching students’ learning experiences within the realm of STEM. With the introduction of programmable robots into the middle school curriculum, Beaufort Academy is poised to inspire students and prepare them for success in an increasingly digital world.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

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