Grant History

To further establish the Technology and Engineering Education classroom as a center for innovation and student-driven projects, this grant proposes key technology upgrades. Outdated laptops would be replaced by powerful CAD desktops with larger monitors, improving the design experience for students. The addition of a multi-material 3D printer would unlock greater creativity and complexity in student projects, supported by the inclusion of necessary startup materials. Finally, a large format printer would provide the capability to produce professional-quality engineering and architectural drawings. These enhancements support the department's mission to cultivate innovative thinking and problem-solving skills, essential for future careers in STEM fields.

This essential tool is used by every 7th and 8th grade student in the Foundations of STEM (Tech Ed) woodshop for project-based learning. A modern planer with updated safety features will benefit students, co-curricular activities (Toys for Tots club), and extracurricular activities (school theater). This grant will provide students with hands-on experience on industry-standard equipment, preparing them for future vocations or home-hobbyist woodworking.

The Outdoor Ed program provides a transformative experience for students, immersing them in nature for two days and one night. This eye-opening adventure fosters a deep connection with the environment, inspiring a sense of responsibility and stewardship. Students discover new species, engage in critical thinking, and develop teamwork skills while completing challenging tasks. It's an unforgettable journey of learning and personal growth.

The Technology and Engineering Education classroom requires technology upgrades to enhance its role as an innovation hub. Funding is requested for upgraded CAD computers with larger monitors for improved design work, a multi-material 3D printer for intricate student projects, 3D printer startup materials, and a large format printer for engineering and architectural drawings. These tools will support the department's mission to develop innovative thinkers and problem-solvers, equipping students with valuable skills for future careers. This request aligns with MEF's focus on STEM education, innovation, and career development.

Continued Support

This grant purchased robotics kits for the new Robotics Interest Club at Methacton High School. The kits include reusable components like microcontrollers, sensors, motors, and programming interfaces, providing long-term benefits for the club. Funding is needed immediately to kickstart the program and provide students with hands-on learning experiences. The goal of this initiative is to enhance student learning by promoting critical thinking, problem-solving, coding, and engineering skills, while encouraging teamwork and sparking interest in STEM careers.

MEF sponsorship is sending teachers to the ACTFL World Language Convention in Philadelphia this November. The conference provides valuable professional development opportunities with over 600 educational sessions, exposure to the latest research and trends in language education, and networking with other professionals. This experience will support the department's current curriculum review cycle and allow teachers to bring back innovative practices to Methacton.

This funding request will cover the cost of sending Methacton High School Science Fair students to the 2025 PJAS State Competition at Penn State University. This valuable experience allows students to present their STEM research, compete for awards, and for juniors, a chance to win PSU scholarships totaling $675,000. This initiative strengthens Methacton's position as a leader in STEM education and supports a major district-wide focus on student research. Funding is needed this spring to cover competition expenses.

continued support

Planetarium Support

Imagination Playground Blocks are foam pieces that allow children to engage in open-ended, free play during recess. Classrooms will also have access to these blocks for classroom community/team building or to use them for academic subjects like Science, Math, and Social Studies.

Arrowhead students will get experience with journalism and producing a news program!

Laser cutters and engravers can play an important role in encouraging interest in STEAM by providing an easy way to integrate hands-on learning for ALL students.

The addition of electric bass to the curriculum allows students to build a rhythm section: the heartbeat of a Modern Band.

The addition of the CNC plasma cutter enhances the learning of all students by exposing them to STEM careers and skills that very few would have access to outside of school.

All students in Arcola participate in music classes and spend half of the music rotation in the Music Technology classroom. This equipment helps students use desktop computers, midi-interfaced keyboards, and audio/video production software to navigate a project-based curriculum.

Upper-level tech ed. classes rely on 3D printing as an integral part of the curriculum. The additional printer allows students to print more projects!

This is joined with the Montgomery County OIC to support a spring break tour to Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The goals are to teach first-generation college students or students from underrepresented populations that they can have access to college and be partnered with local leaders in the community to mentor them.

Lavalier microphones to support the MHS Theater Company for spring and fall shows.

This project will allow students to work with equipment found in professional recording and live environments, both in studios and on-location capacities.

EAMS (Test of Engineering, Aptitude, Math, and Science) is an annual, theme-based competition that allows high school students to discover their passion for STEM and engineering with the potential to make a difference in the world. Methacton’s group (Group A) placed 6th in Pennsylvania (in the top 20% nationally) and qualified to compete in the National TEAMS Competition from June 29th through July 2nd in Louisville, Kentucky.

Registration fees for STEM certified teachers to the ISTE Conference

Support the update of the Planetarium

Support the Methacton Backpack Program to provide students in need with supplemental food items.

Backpack Program for Food Insecure Students

Arcola Philanthropy Club

Flip Classroom - Producing Chemistry Instructional Videos

STEM Fish Tank Ecosystem

STEM Kits at Eagleville

REACH: Mental Health Support Program

STEM Innovation Lab: Hydroponic Farm

STEM Innovation Lab: Forensics BioChemistry Lab

Uncharted Learning Entrepreneurship Business Program

Pre-K Scholarship Program for Students-in-Need

3D Printing the Future

Dedicated iPads for Elementary Library STEMakerSpaces

Outdoor Education - Need-Based Scholarships

24 Game: Teaching Tool to Sharpen Critical Math Skills

Breakout EDU: Game-Based Learning Platform

DNA Molecular Separation Instructional Lab Kits

Engineering Laptops for Computer-Aided Design Software

STEM Lessons in the Library

PCHF Arcola Philanthropy Club

Pre-K Scholarships for Students-in-Need

Science Faculty Membership Fees for MCSTA

Electric Car Club

Backpack Program for Students in Need

AP Testing Fees for Economically Disadvantaged Students

Robotics Club

Science Faculty Membership Fees for MCSTA

Loaner Musical Instruments for Economically Disadvantaged Students

Woodland Video News Production Program

College Tour Trip for Economically Disadvantaged Students

Electric Car Club

Loaner Musical Instruments for Economically Disadvantaged Students

T.E.A.M.S. Club

JV History Club

Music Technology Production Course

Driver's Education Simulator

Backpack Program for Economically Disadvantaged Students