INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) on Thursday announced additional Indiana schools are now certified in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

With an increase of over 16%, the total of Indiana STEM certified schools is now 90, according to a news release from IDOE.

Claypool, Jefferson, and Madison elementary schools were on the list of 2020 STEM certified schools.

These three Warsaw Community elementary schools join Washington STEM Academy as STEM certified schools, according to a news release from WCS.

WCS Superintendent Dr. David Hoffert said the school corporation is very excited for Claypool, Jefferson, and Madison, as well as Washington STEM.

"We are so thankful and excited for the hard work and dedication by the teachers, administration, parents, community partners, and students at Claypool, Jefferson, Madison, and Washington in the fields of STEM education. WCS has become a global leader in the incorporation of STEM education. These designations from the state of Indiana represent the continued partnerships with our local community and industries," Hoffert said in the news release from WCS.

“Creating environments whereby students are immersed in STEM activities is a priority for Indiana schools,” said State Superintendent Dr. Jennifer McCormick in a news release from the IDOE. “I am grateful for the student-focused passion exemplified by our STEM certified schools and commend our 2020 schools for furthering Indiana’s dedication to STEM.”

Created in 2015, the STEM Certified Schools program recognizes schools focused on a commitment to teaching STEM disciplines beyond the classroom, according to the IDOE release. STEM certified schools exemplify a highly non-traditional approach to education, employing a great deal of inquiry, project-based learning, community engagement, entrepreneurship, student-centered classrooms, integration into humanities and related arts, and out-of-school STEM activities. STEM certified schools take this approach while following educational policies set by the state and excelling under the system of accountability. Prior to certification, each school completed a rigorous application and review process.

To view a complete list of Indiana STEM Certified schools, visit https://www.in.gov/doe/students/stem-school-certification/indianas-stem-certified-schools/

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