Keystone College Receives PA Smart Grant for Youth “STEM” Initiative

Keystone College has received a state grant to develop several technology programs for regional elementary and high school students.

The $378,150 grant is part of Governor Tom Wolf’s $10.8 million PAsmart initiative to expand access to computer science and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education for Pennsylvania students.

Keystone’s grant will focus on developing computer science, information technology, and 3-D printing for elementary and high school students. Specific school districts involved will be announced soon.  

High school students included in the Keystone initiative will have an opportunity for dual enrollment and to attain certifications in Python coding and/or SOLIDWORKS 3-D printing. The certifications can be used as resume builders to join the workforce after high school and the dual enrollment credits can be applied toward higher education opportunities.

Elementary students will be engaged in glass blowing and ceramic classes. They will learn about materials science and how it relates to the creation of those art forms. The PAsmart grant also includes funding for technology and software and instructor stipends.

“We are extremely grateful to Governor Wolf to be included in the PAsmart initiative,” said Keystone College President Tracy L. Brundage, Ph.D. “The education programs we develop will help local students obtain valuable training. Whether they decide to continue their education after high school, or enter the workforce directly, these programs are critical for young people to develop the necessary skills to be successful in their careers and in their lives.”   

“Workers in all types of jobs increasingly need to use computers and technology,” said Governor Wolf. “In order to meet that demand, I launched PAsmart in 2018 to expand science and technology education. These grants will help our schools and communities to expand STEM and computer science education. That will strengthen our workforce, so businesses can grow, and workers have good jobs that can support a family.”

Keystone offers more than 40 undergraduate and graduate degree options in liberal arts and science-based programs in business, communications, education, natural science, environmental science, and social sciences. Located 15 minutes from Scranton, Pa. and two hours from New York City and Philadelphia, Keystone is known for small class sizes and individual attention focused on student success through internships, research, and community involvement.