Ian Egan 
Huge donation of equipment, supplies, and expertise boosts STEM education
Science and technology training for students across PWCS Prince William County Public Schools in Virginia (PWCS) is getting a big boost from a $300,000 product donation of scientific equipment and supplies by Prince William County-based and family-owned business, C & A Scientific. C & A Scientific has been located in Manassas for over 20 years.
The contribution provides brand-new lab equipment, experimental kits, and microscopes from their science educational brands My First Lab® and Premiere®, supporting inquiry-based Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education. Students will get access to costly learning tools that were previously unavailable or in short supply, due to tight school budgets. C & A Scientific is also providing professional development on using the equipment, allowing teachers to make the most of these resources. Engaging students in STEM topics opens doors to educational and career opportunities. Careers in STEM fields are vital for economic growth in Prince William County and around the world.
“The remarkable contribution will greatly support our School Division’s efforts to promote the integrity of a student-centered, hands-on approach to science education,” said Julie Renberg, Supervisor of Science and Family Life Education.
“We are honored to help support students and educators in Prince William County through our donation program,” adds Trent Middleton, vice president of C & A Scientific. Middleton is also a former science teacher and has a background in microbiology. “Being able to provide critical lab supplies, microscopes, experiment kits and specimens will empower students with an interactive experience through hands-on learning – vital to developing core STEM skills. As the maker of scientific equipment trusted by medical and lab professionals around the world, PWCS students will get access to the same medical-grade products and supplies relied on in real-life settings and clinical applications.”
“Great partners like C&A Scientific reaffirm that excellent schools are everyone’s business,” added Sharon Henry, executive director of SPARK, the PWCS Education Foundation who facilitated this generous donation.
Further Reading
- U.S. News & World Report – After-School Programs Foster STEM Skills
- The Advocate – Letters: STEM learning critical for future
- Komo News – A Shared Belief: Washington Voters Overwhelmingly Support STEM in Schools
