District welcomes Chamber members for July Business After Hours

School being out for the summer didn’t keep the District from welcoming dozens of local leaders for the Van Buren Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Hours on July 25. It was the first time for VBSD to host the evening networking event, which is free and open to all Chamber members.

At BAH, the District highlighted its expanded STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program, which includes opportunities for learning and engagement at all grade levels. Several teachers and students were on-hand for the event, showcasing unique elements of the STEM curriculum and answering questions for guests. Many visitors were able to try their hand at maneuvering a motorized robot built by Van Buren engineering students and at examining the District’s 3-D printer.

During the program, Van Buren High School teacher Dr. Joe McClean shared about the District’s STEM curriculum, along with initiatives such as Project Lead the Way (PLTW), and CASE (Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education). McClean also discussed VBSD’s valuable partnerships with area institutions of higher learning, including the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith.

Learn more about Van Buren High School’s own PLTW-Pathway to Engineering program by watching this YouTube video.