STEM Program Expands @ MPA

Mount Pisgah Academy is known for being a technology-driven school. In 2012, they jumped on board with the Apple iPad program. Each student was given an iPad where they would read e-books, complete assignments, and turn in homework. Additionally, all buildings on campus were wired with fiber optics to increase internet quality. They also have a computer lab in the administration building, computers in the library, and desktops in each dormitory. In 2014, Louie Parra attended an EXCEED symposium at Loma Linda University to introduce the school to rockets as part of physical science classes. It was an introduction which led to exploring adaptable field for increasing their aptitude in STEM.

MPA is blessed to be given this opportunity and have the talent to expand our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program. After receiving a $10,000 STEM grant from Versacare and two matching grants, MPA’s STEM classes officially started in 2018. The initial focus was coding, electronics, 3-D printing, and robotics. When COVID-19 hit in March of 2020, it was obvious students were not going to have a conventional school year. STEM has a very collaborative teaching structure, and with long distant learning, they could not work in teams to complete the robotics assignment. Instead, each student was mailed a robot to build for the class and all students completed the assignment.

This year, the school expanded the STEM space to a larger classroom in Waller Hall. With this new space, they are adding networking and possibilities for circuitry and electronics. Although they are still finalizing a few aspects, the classroom is almost ready to be used for instruction. The vision is to eventually add virtual reality and augmented reality. MPA will be again looking for future grants and donations to continue to expand these classes.

— by Lucy Hall, Alumni Director