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BASTROP — Tech powerhouse Amazon has announced a partnership with Bastrop Independent School District, focusing on elevating early development STEM programs.
Eight elementary schools in the district are the latest additions to the Amazon Future Engineer program, a comprehensive childhood-to-career strategy aimed at increasing access to computer science education and supporting career exploration at an age when kids first start to think about their futures. Several teachers will gain professional development and over 6,000 students will benefit from the partnership.
“Investing in training for teachers to help them hone their knowledge, skills and teaching craft is what enables them to truly make a difference for students. That the professional development is targeted towards computer science education directly addresses our goal to provide meaningful future career pathways for our students,” said Superintendent of Schools Barry Edwards. “We are excited about the partnership between Bastrop ISD and Amazon to impact both our teachers and our students.”
Amazon will be enlisting the aid of BootUp PD, a nonprofit professional development provider specializing in elementary schools. Through virtual lessons, Bastrop ISD teachers will be provided with the education and tools they need to bring engaging lessons to their students. The courses will focus on creativity and problem solving in the computer science sphere, with introductory components for coding and basic technology studies.
BootUp PD will continue to offer educational coaching and support.
The program has worked with over 1200 schools in 26 states since 2016, according toleaders. Additionally, the Amazon Future Engineer program will offer scholarships of up to $40,000 for undergraduate studies in STEM fields. Realizing potential and developing interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematic industries is what will help change the world for the better, according to Amazon representatives.
Bastrop ISD is one of the largest districts geographically in Texas, at 433 square miles, with 13,000 students in 17 schools. Students will reap the benefits of this partnership for years to come.
