The partnership between Samsung Austin Semiconductor and Taylor Independent School District added another chapter.
The semiconductor company presented Taylor ISD’s board of trustees a $110,000 check to provide incentives to reward the staff for innovation and performance in STEM during the Aug. 21 meeting.
Since announcing it will be bringing a $17 billion chip plant to Taylor, Samsung has partnered with the school district on multiple occasions. One ongoing partnership is the 24 summer internship spots offered specifically to Taylor High School students.
“We are focused on weaving ourselves into the fabric of this community,” said Michele Glaze, Samsung Austin Semiconductor’s head of communications. “On behalf of the Samsung leadership team here in Austin, Taylor and in Korea, thank you for letting us be your partners in inspiring, equipping and empowering every student to achieve their unique potential.”
The donation specifically introduces the creation of Project Lead the Way for fourth, fifth and sixth grade students.
PLTW will empower students to adopt a designthinking mindset through compelling activities, projects and problems that build upon each other and relate to the world around them.
The program will provide extensions from math, arts and science to direct hands-on experiences in computer science, engineering and biomedical science. Students will learn to become creative and collaborative problem solvers.
These classes provide experiences in robotics and automation, app creators and computer science for innovators.
“Our goal is to develop student interest and exposure to STEM opportunities including our newly opened Pathways in Technology Early College High School programs at Taylor High School,” said Clarissa Rodriguez, assistant superintendent for teaching and learning. “These PTECH programs offer students the courses needed to graduate from high school with certifications in precision machining and industrial systems.”
Rodriguez said upon graduation, students have the academic and professional skills required to continue their education or enter the workforce in a high-demand field.
