"Building the Future: OEF Grant 'LEGO My STEAM' Empowers Students at Berlin Middle School"

In an exciting initiative fueled by the Olentangy Education Foundation (OEF) Grant and sponsored by DCTS, Berlin Middle School is witnessing a transformative educational experience with the "LEGO My STEAM" program. Lead by Math Specialist Roscoe Holt, this innovative endeavor aims to cultivate Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) skills among students while nurturing essential 21st-century skills like collaboration and critical thinking.

The program, designed to evolve with students, focuses on building confidence in coding, robotics, and computer science. Students are not only engaged in hands-on activities but are also presented with real-life challenges to enhance their problem-solving abilities. The first challenge tasked students with creating a moving vehicle, and the subsequent challenge delved into the realm of robotics by requiring them to design a vehicle that could autonomously turn away from obstacles, similar to the technology used in a Roomba sweeper.

Mr. Holt expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "LEGO My STEAM has been a big hit at Berlin MS. As soon as the kids saw the kits, they were excited with the possibilities. Everybody loves LEGO, and these kits provide a perfect opportunity to get kids coding, designing, and building to overcome real-life challenges. It has been a great way to spark curiosity and creativity. We are busy coming up with challenges and excited for the connections to the real world."

Currently, the LEGO My STEAM kits are being utilized in an afterschool club, where students eagerly explore the realms of coding and robotics. The success of the program has laid the foundation for its expansion into classrooms, promising to bring the excitement and educational benefits of STEAM to even more students at Berlin Middle School.

This initiative not only demonstrates the power of innovative teaching methods but also highlights the OEF's commitment to enriching the educational experience for Olentangy students. As we look forward to the continued success of LEGO My STEAM, we celebrate the collaborative efforts that make such transformative programs possible.

THANK YOU TO DCTS FOR SPONSORING THIS INNOVATIVE GRANT.

Olentangy For Kids (OFK) - who are they?

Some of you may have received information regarding the upcoming school ballot levy from an organization called Olentangy for Kids (OFK). We know there might be some confusion between OFK and Olentangy Education Foundation (OEF) so we thought we would try to help resolve any confusion.

Olentangy for Kids (OFK) and Olentangy Education Foundation (OEF) play distinct yet complementary roles within the Olentangy community. OFK is a grassroots group of dedicated residents solely focused on educating the community about school ballot issues during campaign years. Run entirely by volunteers and funded through private donations, OFK's primary goal is to provide voters with factual information to make informed decisions during elections. On the other hand, Olentangy Education Foundation is a year-round non-profit organization committed to enhancing education in Olentangy Schools. OEF supports teachers and students in creating enriching learning experiences by funding innovative classroom grants. OEF relies on sponsorships and private donors for its funding and operates consistently every year, irrespective of campaign cycles.

To learn more about Olentangy for Kids and how you can support their efforts, please click HERE. If you have any other questions regarding the mission of OEF, please feel free to contact Mary Lorenz. We appreciate your support of Olentangy Schools!

Unlocking Innovation: Olentangy Academy's STEM Students Gear Up for VEX Robotics Showdown

By Mary Lorenz

In the bustling halls of Olentangy Academy's STEM School, the air is charged with the unmistakable buzz of creativity and innovation. This semester, 80 sophomore students have embarked on a thrilling journey as they dive headfirst into the world of robotics through the VEX Robotics Project. Divided into four teams, each equipped with six cutting-edge robot kits, these students are on a mission to engineer, program, and perfect their creations before the semester concludes.

Leading the charge is Benjamin Lloyd, a dynamic force behind the VEX Robotics initiative at Olentangy Academy. Lloyd's passion for nurturing young minds in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is evident as he guides the students through the intricacies of designing and building their robots.

The VEX Robotics Project, a hands-on educational program, not only cultivates technical skills but also fosters teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. During a recent visit to the classroom, I witnessed firsthand the students' infectious enthusiasm and engagement as they tinkered with gears, wired circuits, and programmed their robots to perform a myriad of tasks.

Olentangy Education Foundation was able to support this project with a $8000 grant sponsored by the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. This investment ensures that these students have access to state-of-the-art technology, propelling them into the forefront of STEM education.

As the semester winds down, anticipation is building for the grand finale in January, when the teams will put their creations to the test in a series of fun and challenging activities. The culmination of weeks of hard work and collaboration, this event promises to showcase the students' ingenuity and the transformative power of hands-on learning.

The impact of programs like VEX Robotics extends far beyond the classroom, inspiring a new generation of innovators and problem-solvers. The dedication of educators like Benjamin Lloyd, coupled with the support of organizations like the Olentangy Education Foundation and the OSU Wexner Medical Center, propels students toward a future filled with endless possibilities.

Stay tuned as we return in January to report on the exhilarating VEX Robotics showdown, where these talented students will unleash their robotic creations in a display of skill, teamwork, and pure STEM prowess. The Olentangy Academy's STEM School is undeniably shaping the future, one robot at a time.

 Thank you to The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center FOR SPONSORING THIS INNOVATIVE GRANT.

Unlocking Potential: The Power of Year-End Giving to Olentangy Education Foundation

As the year draws to a close, many individuals are considering where to direct their charitable contributions. One compelling choice that not only offers tax advantages but also brings about tangible positive change is the Olentangy Education Foundation (OEF). As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, donating to OEF not only supports innovative classroom grants but also comes with distinct tax benefits.

Tax Benefits: A Win-Win Proposition

One of the primary advantages of contributing to OEF is the tax benefits that come with supporting a registered 501(c)(3) organization. Donors may be eligible for tax deductions, allowing them to reduce their taxable income. As the year-end approaches, strategic giving to OEF provides an opportunity to make a positive impact on education while optimizing your financial situation.

Before the tax year concludes, consider consulting with your financial advisor to explore how your donation to OEF aligns with your overall financial goals. By leveraging the tax benefits associated with charitable giving, you can maximize the impact of your contribution and support the growth of education in Olentangy Schools.

Fueling Innovation in Olentangy Classrooms

Beyond the immediate tax advantages, every donation to OEF becomes a catalyst for innovation in Olentangy classrooms. OEF is committed to empowering educators by providing funds for innovative classroom grants. These grants, made possible by the generosity of donors, enable teachers to implement creative and forward-thinking projects that enhance the learning experience for students.

From state-of-the-art technology to hands-on learning materials, OEF grants open doors to new educational possibilities. They allow teachers to go beyond the conventional curriculum, fostering an environment where students can explore, experiment, and engage with their education in meaningful ways.

A Direct Impact on Olentangy Students

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of supporting OEF is the direct and positive impact on Olentangy students' lives. Your donation becomes an investment in their education, providing resources and opportunities that contribute to their academic success and personal growth.

OEF's commitment to funding innovative classroom grants ensures that students have access to enriching experiences that go beyond traditional learning. Whether it's in the fields of science, arts, or technology, OEF grants equip students with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

How to Make a Difference

As the year comes to an end, consider making a lasting impact by donating to Olentangy Education Foundation. CLICK HERE to learn more about the giving options available. Please contact Mary Lorenz, Executive Director if you would like to learn more about setting up a fund or a reoccurring gift.

Your donation not only brings about positive change in Olentangy classrooms but also provides you with the opportunity to benefit from tax deductions. It's a win-win proposition that aligns financial strategy with philanthropic goals, making your year-end giving a meaningful and impactful endeavor for both you and the community.