The Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD) is proud to announce that we have received a $2 million grant from the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) to advance STEAM education. This grant, awarded under the Military-Connected for Academic and Support Programs (MCASP), underscores CVESD's commitment to providing comprehensive educational opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM).
Over the next five years, CVESD will implement the "Making Way for STEAM Careers" project across 16 participating schools, focusing on establishing STEAM Studios, opening our newest Station Experience – Life Science Station, and organizing Life Science Camps for military-connected students.
DoDEA, a field activity of the Office of the Secretary of Defense, oversees education programs for eligible dependents of U.S. military personnel and Department of Defense civilians. With a vision of "Excellence in education for every student, every day, everywhere," DoDEA collaborates with public school districts to ensure equitable learning experiences for military-connected students.
"We're deeply honored to receive our second grant from DoDEA," said Superintendent Eduardo Reyes, Ed.D. "Through this grant, the district will be able to enhance STEAM opportunities for our students and empower them to explore career opportunities in the life sciences and biotechnology fields and beyond."
Director of Innovation Michael Bruder shares, "The district is committed to empowering the next generation to succeed in the 21st century and beyond. Our Making Way for STEAM Careers grant will allow students to identify and explore their strengths and interests and align them with potential careers in the future world of work."
A school must have 10% or more of military-connected students to qualify for a DoDEA grant. The 16 participating CVESD schools qualify due to their military percentage. The schools set to receive funding are Arroyo Vista Charter, Arroyo Vista Charter Middle, Enrique Camarena Elementary, Joseph Casillas Elementary, Discovery Charter Middle, Eastlake Elementary, Anne & William Hedenkamp Elementary, Heritage Elementary, Fahari L. Jeffers Elementary, Corky McMillin Elementary, Saburo Muraoka Elementary, Olympic View Elementary, Salt Creek Elementary, Burton C. Tiffany Elementary, Valle Lindo Elementary, and Wolf Canyon Elementary.