Hamden awarded $500,000 in state funds to build STEM Academy at high school

November 29, 2017

For two years, the Hamden public school system has worked with state Rep. Mike D’Agostino, D-Hamden, to secure state funding for the building of a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Academy at Hamden High School.

After the State Bond Commission approved $500,000 in bonding Nov. 29 this vision of creating technologically-advanced classroom settings will become a reality.

The bonding will be used for the renovation of existing classrooms with electrical and telecommunications updates, building modifications, the purchase of specialized lab tables, biomedical core technologies and equipment, engineering core technologies and equipment, high capacity computers, printers and interactive displays.

“This project stands to have a lasting impact on Hamden’s students and our community. Not only will these funds help enrich our children’s education, but it will help us create a highly-skilled workforce and better prepare our students for an entry-level career following their high school graduation. This project would not have been made possible without Superintendent of Schools Jody Ian Goeler, Karen Kaplan, director of program innovation, technology and communications, the Hamden Board of Education, and the efforts of state Rep. Patricia Billie Miller, chairwoman of the bonding subcommittee for Finance, Revenue and Bonding at the legislature,” said D’Agostino.

While the high school has altered its curriculum to offer courses in the health, engineering and computer science fields, the school’s current infrastructure limits its ability to provide students with extensive, career-focused STEM learning opportunities.

Hamden High School’s STEM Academy will have two divisions – Health Sciences and High Tech. The Health Sciences Division will include courses and experiences that help students develop skills needed for success in health care occupations, jobs that are in high demand in Connecticut.

The High Tech Division will provide students with the opportunity to develop skills in the engineering, manufacturing and computer science fields.

“We could not be more pleased with the State of Connecticut bond funds awarded to Hamden for the STEM Academy at Hamden High School. With these funds, Hamden will be able to initiate programs that aim to inspire our students to pursue STEM fields and related careers. Students will be able to participate in programs of study related to engineering, manufacturing, health care and more, preparing them for success in additional studies or as skilled workers in the Connecticut workforce. Our STEM Academy will allow students to learn skills needed for industry certifications while providing opportunities to earn high school and college credit, making higher education more attainable and affordable for our families. The STEM Academy at Hamden High will be a vital asset to our school and community,” said Jody Ian Goeler, superintendent of Hamden Public Schools.