February 7, 2025
We are thrilled to announce that Gilbert High School has once again been named a recipient of a STEM BEST Program award from the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council at the Iowa Department of Education.
The STEM BEST (Business Engaging Students and Teachers) Program provides students with career-connected learning experiences. Students and teachers work closely with local workplaces and professionals to introduce and prepare learners for future success in their communities.
Agriculture instructor Adam Davis applied for the grant, and it was announced this week that Gilbert has been awarded $40,000, the maximum amount for one school. Gilbert High School is one of eight schools in the North Central Region and one of only 29 schools statewide to receive the grant.
Mr. Davis says the application was centered around promoting work-based learning and increased opportunities for students to earn industry recognized credentials through the agriculture education program.
Mr. Davis will now spend several months exploring potential connections in an effort to build stronger relationships with industry partners. This will increase hands-on learning opportunities to help students gain real-world experience.
The grant also provides funding for safety and facility upgrades, as well as CNC equipment, and industry grade machinery.
Just one year ago, Mr. Davis helped to bring a Credentials to Careers grant to GHS, which totaled more than $138,000. This grant was designed to help high school students earn industry-recognized credentials (IRC). Gilbert was one of only 20 school districts across the state to receive that grant.
