Graham Local Schools

Applying STEAM education with locally relevant, project-based learning: The rural district’s agricultural roots come alive through the student-managed Falcon Farms—a 22-acre plot of commercial farmland where students explore precision farming, beekeeping, and ecological sciences.

Envisioning career pathways for all students: Graham Local Schools’ Career Gears program seeks to meet the needs of students and local industry through a personalized career-planning strategy. Students participating in the program receive school credit while they enroll in a workforce readiness course, earn industry-recognized credentials, and engage in a 12-week internship.

Prioritizing equitable access to STEAM: The middle school’s award-winning, all-female student energy team—led by a female science teacher—opens leadership pathways for students who are traditionally underrepresented in STEAM careers. The young women educate younger students on clean, renewable energy use by leading in-class demonstrations and energy fairs.

Modeling innovation through exploratory learning: The Hatchery is a model elementary school classroom where students drive their own education through inquiry and problem-solving through project-based learning. Student projects have covered many topics, including coding, robotics, and even raising brown trout.