During his visit to Richmond Hill Middle School on Oct. 13,  Georgia State Superintendent Richard Woods presented the Georgia STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) certification banner to school principal, Dr. Elizabeth Bennett, confirming the five-year STEM certification. 

After the presentation, Woods was given a tour of the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) facilities and Innovative labs to see where the hands-on learning occurs.

STEMGeorgia.org defines “STEM/STEAM education as a transformative approach to traditional teaching and learning that fosters creativity and innovative thinking in all students. Not only does STEM/STEAM education make school more engaging, but it also builds skills required for college, career, and the 21st century.”

Richmond Hill Middle School has been working towards STEM certification for several years. “The certification process is a very lengthy and in-depth process. We are so proud of the students and staff of Richmond Hill Middle School for their continued focus and efforts to accomplish their goal of being STEM Certified.”, said Dr. Paul T. Brooksher, Superintendent of Bryan County Schools.

“Richmond Hill Middle School is honored to be one of the few STEM certified middle schools in the state of Georgia," said Bennett. "Our students, staff and community partners have worked hard for many years to develop a comprehensive, project-based program which allows all levels of learners to experience STEM education. We are very thankful to State Superintendent, Richard Woods, for visiting RHMS and providing us with our official STEM certification banner.”

Richmond Hill Middle School continues to grow the STEAM program welcoming more and more students each year. The program currently enrolls 568 students; however, all students are exposed to STEAM through a variety projects and classes outside of the program including clubs such as Science Olympiad.