In a morning assembly full of science and just a hint of magic, German science and technology company Merck KGaA announced a new grant program for teachers in the St. Louis area.
The morning began with Washington University Chancellor Mark Wrighton dazzling students at KIPP Inspire Academy with a magical display of chemistry and ended with students exploring the world of chemistry for themselves through hands-on science experiments. With real-life chemists and biologists by their side, students were able to engage their curiosity and imagine themselves in these very roles.
“Our partnership with KIPP and the Institute for School Partnership at Wash U highlights the potential that curiosity brings to the classroom,†said Jeffrey Whitford, Director of Global Citizenship at Sigma-Aldrich, the life science company soon to be acquired by Merck KGaA.
“When science is captivating the possibilities are endless, and we saw that happen with the KIPPsters at Inspire Academy.â€
However, the students weren’t the only ones with something to get excited about.
Merck KGaA also announced the beginning of a new grant program for St. Louis educators. Through the program, educators can apply for grants of up to $1,250 that would allow them to do in-class science explorations with their students. Select programs could even be assigned a scientist or researcher from the company to help mentor students through the project.
“KIPP is incredibly grateful for community partners that help our scholars climb the mountain to and through college,†said Kelly Garrett, executive director of KIPP St. Louis.
“The Merck KGaA/Sigma-Aldrich event at KIPP Inspire Academy demonstrated many critical components of our partnership with them – the importance and the magic of science, potential careers in scientific fields, and the need to focus on your studies today to achieve your goals tomorrow.â€
Submissions for the grant program are due January 13, 2016. For more information, visit http://www.125yearssmartertogether.com/smarter-together-in-the-classroom/.
November 2015  |  by, Gennafer Barajas