St. Hilary School is one of 58 Ohio schools selected by the Ohio Academy of Science to receive The Governor’s Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education and Student Research for its accomplishments during the 2016-2017 school year!  In addition, St. Hilary teachers Mrs. Durkin, Mrs. Heuer, Mrs. Slanina, Mrs. Sollenberger, and Mrs. Weber were also individually selected by the Academy to receive this award.  Forty professionals broadly representing STEM employers from business, industry, government, and academia evaluated the applications submitted by schools across the state. 

The Academy defines STEM education as both the mastery and integration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics for all Pre-K – grade 12 students.  It incorporates scientific inquiry and technological design through student-focused, project-based curricula to develop skills of communication, teamwork/collaboration, creativity/innovation, critical thinking, and problem solving.

First established in 1985, the Governor’s Thomas Edison Award recognizes Ohio schools and teachers who stimulate scientific student research and technological design and extent opportunities beyond traditional classroom activities.  Students must participate in one or more youth science opportunities beyond the classroom.  According to Michael E. Woytek, CEO of the Academy, “These schools and teachers push the boundaries of the traditional classroom by advising and mentoring student-originated research and other hands-on experiences.”  The Academy initiated this educational partnership program in cooperation with The Office of the Governor and The Technology Division of The Ohio Development Services Agency to recognize schools and teachers for excellence in STEM education and scientific student research.

The Academy is the leading organization in Ohio to foster curiosity, discovery, innovation, and problem-solving skills.  For more information about the Academy, please visit its website at http://www.ohiosci.org.