Ritchie Secures Over $12,000 to Improve "STEM" Programs in Local Schools

In an effort to better prepare students for futures in science, technology, engineering and mathematics—also known as “STEM” careers—State Senator Patty Ritchie has delivered $12,500 in special funding to enhance programs based in those subject areas in Jefferson and Oswego County schools.

"Each and every day, technology is changing and that means endless possibilities for new and interesting careers for our region’s young people,” said Senator Ritchie. “ I am pleased to be able to secure this funding, which will help to provide students with more opportunities to get hands-on experience in science, technology, engineering and mathematics that will help better prepare them for brighter futures.”

School districts receiving funding include the Watertown City School District and Hannibal Central School District. 

“We want to thank Senator Ritchie for providing this funding to help our students achieve new heights,” said Hannibal Central School Superintendent Christopher Staats. “Our STEM programs give students the opportunity to use their knowledge and creativity to the fullest extent and, hopefully, inspire them to pursue careers in these fields.” 

 “Technology is expanding in all aspects of our daily lives and by exposing our students to STEM at an early age we can hopefully give them the enthusiasm and the knowledge that will motivate them to work hard to achieve their goals in the future,” said Watertown City School District Superintendent Terry Fralick. “We want to thank Senator Ritchie for her continued generous support of our STEM programs, including this latest funding allowing us to obtain 3-D printers.”

Senator Ritchie’s delivering of funding for STEM programs represents only her most recent effort to improve educational opportunities for students.  In the past, she has delivered funds for a variety of programs to make students more career-ready, including those in the culinary, manufacturing and agriculture fields.