White Plains Academy has been awarded a grant from the Tennessee Valley Authority, in partnership with Bicentennial Volunteers, Inc., a TVA retiree organization, to develop science, technology, engineering, and math education projects to help spark student interest in future careers in STEM-related fields.

Pictured Above:

White Plains Academy Principal Joe Matheney (left) recently received a $5,000  TVA STEM Grant check from Community Relations Manager Rachel Crickmar to support the school’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Laboratory projects.  

Teachers across TVA’s seven-state region applied for funding of up to $5,000 for projects, and 238 applications were selected.

“We are excited to have this funding to support hands-on activities and programs within our STEM Laboratory that help students develop real-world problem-solving skills,” said Principal Joe Matheney. “We want to open doors to high quality, rewarding jobs for our students, and the grant will help us introduce them to these subjects.”

Schools awarded grants must receive their power from a local power company served by TVA.

“Upper Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation serves White Plains Academy, says UCEMC General Manager and CEO Jennifer Brogdon. “We applaud White Plains Academy leadership and teaching staff for using this award to spark interest in STEM learning opportunities for the next generation.”

     “TVA is committed to supporting STEM education to help develop today’s students into tomorrow’s engineers, scientists, and IT professionals says Jeannette Mills, TVA Executive vice president, and chief external relations officer. “It’s inspiring to contribute to the next generation’s innovators. We’re excited for the students and their plans for the White Plains Academy STEM lab.”

    Since 2018, TVA and BVI have awarded nearly $5 million in STEM grants to support local education.

   A complete list of grant recipients and information on how to apply for a future STEM grant can be found at www.tvastem.com.