Knob Noster Public Schools has been awarded the Pete Taylor Partnership of Excellence Award by the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) during its 19th National Training Seminar in Washington, DC.
The annual award encourages and applauds the outstanding partnerships formed between military installations and school districts that serve military children. Award winners are selected from schools and military installations around the world by MCEC, a non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring quality educational opportunities for all military and veteran-connected children affected by mobility, transition, and family separation.
“The Military Child Education Coalition proudly salutes the remarkable difference that these schools, military installations, communities, and states are making in the lives of military and veteran-connected children,” said Dr. Mary Keller, MCEC President and CEO. “By collaborating authentically in unique and innovative ways, these military, education, corporate and policy leaders exemplify the power and promise of partnerships.”
Knob Noster Public Schools’ Partnership of Excellence Award recognizes the “GEAR UP 4 STEM” initiative which brought seven new STEM-related Advanced Placement (AP) courses and FIRST Robotics to Knob Noster High School during the past year. “GEAR UP 4 STEM” was delivered through a collaborative partnership between Knob Noster Public Schools and Whiteman Air Force Base, Northrop Grumman, National Math + Science Initiative, FIRST Robotics, Department of Defense Education Activity, and Whiteman Air Force Base Community Council.
Dr. Jerrod Wheeler, Knob Noster Superintendent of Schools shared, “Two out of every three Knob Noster students are military-connected to Whiteman Air Force Base. On average, these students see six transitions during their K-12 matriculation. GEAR UP 4 STEM not only provides enhanced rigor and career/college preparation for our students, but the Advanced Placement program ensures these credits are universally transferrable. When students graduate or transition from Whiteman Air Force Base due to Permanent Change of Station (PCS), these courses seamlessly follow with them. We applaud our partners who united with us to deliver the “GEAR UP 4 STEM” program and our students are absolutely thrilled with the new opportunities it provides. Many new programs are currently being implemented to better-serve our students, and we welcome all corporate and community leaders to engage with Knob Noster Public Schools in giving back to the families of those who serve and protect the United States of America.”