News Summary
Malachi Wilkerson Middle School in Birmingham, Alabama, introduces an innovative STEM summer program aimed at bridging educational gaps caused by recent challenges. Kicking off on June 10 and running through July 8, the program offers hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Students will engage in activities like drone building and coding, while also having access to courses in baking and nail care. This initiative, supported by partnerships addressing technology access, emphasizes the importance of equipping young learners for future success.
Birmingham Welcomes Exciting Summer Program at Malachi Wilkerson Middle School
In the heart of Birmingham, Alabama, a wave of excitement is taking over Malachi Wilkerson Middle School as it launches an innovative STEM summer program aimed at bridging the learning gaps caused by recent challenges. Located at 116 11th Court West in the East Thomas neighborhood, the school is stepping up to the plate to ensure its students are equipped with essential skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
A Bit of History
Malachi Wilkerson Middle School, a name that pays homage to an influential educator in Birmingham, opened its doors in 1957 as Wilkerson Elementary School and transitioned to cater to grades 6-8 in 1989. Named after Malachi Wilkerson himself, who was not only a graduate of Industrial High School but also an avid supporter of education in the community, this school stands as a testament to the legacy of learning.
Wilkerson, born on January 8, 1884, in Birmingham, started his journey in education in 1911, teaching music and manual training at Industrial High School for an impressive 25 years while leading vibrant musical events for students and the community alike. His profound commitment to education left a lasting impact.
What’s Happening This Summer?
The STEM program, which kicked off on June 10 and runs through July 8, promises to be a fun and engaging way for students to enhance their understanding of vital concepts. Focusing on activities like building and programming drones, students get to dive deep into the realms of circuits and coding. What better way to learn than to literally get hands-on?
This hands-on learning approach aims to equip students with practical skills in areas such as structural engineering and video production. By participating in these activities, students not only learn technical skills but also gain confidence in their abilities to solve problems creatively.
Building a Bright Future
Principal Davida Hill-Johnson believes that blending traditional teaching methods with practical, hands-on experiences significantly increases how well students retain knowledge. This approach prepares students for the specialized career training programs offered at the city’s high schools, paving the way to future academic and career successes.
Furthermore, the summer program enhances its offerings with classes in baking and nail care, providing a range of skills tailored to students’ interests. There’s also a support program for those who are struggling academically, ensuring that every kid finds a way to thrive.
Tackling Technology Access
As we know, the COVID-19 pandemic forced many families to adapt to remote learning, exposing barriers related to technology access. To combat this, Malachi Wilkerson Middle School has partnered with Verizon and the education nonprofit Heart of America, aiming to bring improved tech resources and enhanced curriculum to local students.
The Verizon Innovative Learning program is a fantastic initiative that provides students with free technology while integrating real-world problem-solving into their education. This is just one more way that the school is prioritizing opportunities for its students, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed in a quickly changing world.
Looking Forward
As summer unfolds, the community of Birmingham can look forward to seeing how the bright young minds at Malachi Wilkerson Middle School benefit from this unique program. With its rich history and commitment to innovation, the school continuously proves that bridging gaps in education is possible with the right resources and determination.
So, here’s to an enriching summer at Malachi Wilkerson Middle School—because investing in our young learners today means a brighter, more skilled generation for tomorrow!
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Additional Resources
- Birmingham Times: Malachi Wilkerson
- Birmingham Times: Summer STEM Program
- AL.com: Financial Literacy Training
- Birmingham Times: New Science Lab
- Birmingham Times: School Year Challenges
- Wikipedia: STEM Education
- Google Search: Malachi Wilkerson
- Encyclopedia Britannica: STEM
- Google News: Birmingham Education
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
