Program Supports Local Schools

Science technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) initiatives have long been ranked high on the chapter's priority list. The chapter is in the process of fundamentally changing the way it administers its STEM program. Traditionally, it applied a “peanut butter” approach to provide resources to schools across the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. This method yielded some successes but fell short in establishing lasting community relationships. Ken Hirlinger, chapter president, spearheaded the Adopt-A-School program to refocus STEM resources to a target schools in the local commuting area. Now, the chapter is able to build lasting partnerships with each school and recruit STEM-focused AFCEA mentors for the partnership schools. The priority was placed on middle schools followed by high schools and elementary schools. The chapter felt by targeting middle schools, it would optimize the return on its STEM investments. The STEM focus areas include: classroom equipment (Teacher Tools), robotics and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) clubs, and science fair awards. The inaugural launch for the program began with two schools: Lindsay and Tabb middle schools. Maj. Rolando Aguirre, USAF, program lead for Adopt-A-School and member of the chapter's board of directors, joined local industry partners in April to present checks to each of these schools. This program would not be a success without the unwavering support of industry partners, such as MITRE.

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