Phillips 66 boosts middle school STEM program with $1 million contribution

Phillips 66 announced it has donated $1 million to Project Lead The Way, an initiative focused on introducing students to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers through collaborative academic activities. In the Aldine school district in Houston, students utilized the contribution to construct paper skimmers, exploring the principles of engineering and design. This donation is part of Phillips 66's broader commitment to enhancing STEM education across America.

One example of how the donation impacts learning can be seen at Garcia Middle School in Aldine. In Garcia Middle School at Aldine, students engage in hands-on learning, acquiring skills such as measurement, hypothesis-setting, and embracing the value of trial and error. Project Lead The Way, initiated by teachers in 1997, provides professional development to educators and implements a practical curriculum aimed at enhancing students' proficiency in STEM. Over 12,000 schools throughout the United States have adopted the program, and research indicates that students who have been instructed using Project Lead The Way's curriculum are three times more inclined to pursue majors in STEM fields, according to a press release by Phillips 66.

The impact of this hands-on learning approach isn't lost on local educational leaders. "We know there’s some magic happening," said Dr. Adrian Bustillos, chief transformation officer at Aldine ISD, according to a press release by Phillips 66. "The students gain autonomy and confidence and are ready to go to the next level."

Phillips 66's strategic focus on middle schools stems from an understanding of their role within educational pathways. Phillips 66 revealed that it directs its support toward middle schools as it recognizes their pivotal role in shaping educational and career trajectories. With a commitment to fostering a more diverse and inclusive STEM workforce, the company emphasizes support for academic training and educational opportunities, with a particular focus on encouraging participation from girls and underrepresented groups, according to a press release by Phillips 66.

The idea of early exposure to STEM is strongly emphasized by key stakeholders in Project Lead The Way. "We know the importance of early access to STEM," said Chief Impact Officer Katie Minihan of Project Lead The Way, according to a press release by Phillips 66. "Students develop confidence in the skills they are learning and understand how to apply them to real-world scenarios. This strong foundation allows students to be more prepared for tomorrow’s workforce."