Delaware Schools Shine in STEM, Music, and Philanthropy

Delaware Schools Shine in STEM | Future Education Magazine

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STEM Innovation Recognized at the National Level


A Delaware school has earned recognition for its innovative approach to addressing healthcare challenges. The Charter School of Wilmington has been named a state finalist in the 15th annual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow national STEM competition. With this achievement, the school will receive a $12,000 technology package from Samsung, which includes a video kit to help present their project at the national level.

The students focused on a pressing issue—healthcare accessibility in underserved areas. Their proposed solution, a “smart hydrogel bandage,” aims to assist medical professionals in managing injuries more efficiently. The team, consisting of juniors Aishwarya Reddy, Asvika Gobinathan, Elaine Zuo, Anna Huang, Arya Anilkumar, Subiksha Srinivasan Vidya, and Niharika Addagada, worked under the guidance of teacher Cindy Tanzer.

Their project addresses the growing physician shortage in areas such as Kent, Sussex, and parts of New Castle County, where wait times for primary care visits have surged by nearly 200% in the past two decades. The proposed bandage features an integrated sensor system capable of detecting biomarkers and adjusting medication delivery to prevent infections. Samsung noted that the most common themes among this year’s state finalists were environmental sustainability, climate resilience, public health, and accessibility.

Student’s Marching Band Dream Gains Community Support


A Delaware high school student is making history in the world of music. Davon McKeever, a senior at William Penn High School, recently secured a spot in the prestigious Spartans Drum and Bugle Corps summer program. This achievement is particularly significant as he is the first Black student to serve as a drum major at his school. Having participated in multiple school music programs, McKeever views this opportunity as the pinnacle of his marching band journey.

However, the program’s cost presented a challenge. With tuition set at $5,000—excluding travel expenses to New Hampshire for training sessions—McKeever needed financial support. He launched a GoFundMe campaign, which quickly gained traction. Within 24 hours, teachers, administrators, community members, and fellow students contributed over $3,500. As of last week, the fundraiser had reached nearly $4,500.

McKeever remains hopeful about closing the gap and is using his journey to inspire others. His message to fellow students is simple: “If you truly dedicate yourself to something, you can achieve it.”

Major Donation Supports New Catholic High School


A new Delaware school , Catholic high school has received a transformative financial boost. Holy Cross High School, set to open in the fall, recently secured a $1.2 million donation from Brian and Kathy Lessard. This contribution marks the largest single donation toward the school’s $6 million capital campaign.

The donation will fund essential renovations for the school’s first building in Camden, support operational costs, and expand the endowment fund to benefit future students. Brian Lessard, president of Lessard Builders, is a founding trustee of the school and a member of the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington’s Board of Education. School President Tom Fertal expressed gratitude for the donation, calling it a vital step toward the institution’s success.

An informational session about Holy Cross High School is scheduled for February 12 for those interested in learning more.

Honoring Student Artwork on Disability Awareness


Delaware school students are being celebrated for their contributions to a longstanding tradition promoting disability awareness. The Governor’s Advisory Council for Exceptional Citizens has hosted a Disability History and Awareness poster contest since 2011, when the state designated October as Disability History and Awareness Month. The 2024 theme, “Share Our Similarities. Celebrate Our Differences,” encouraged students to illustrate issues faced by individuals with disabilities.

Winning students and their families have been invited to a recognition event on February 7. Last year’s event drew over 100 attendees, including students, families, educators, and legislators. The initiative continues to foster awareness and appreciation for diversity within Delaware schools and communities.

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