Jackson Christian receives 2nd STEM/STEAM accreditation

Jackson Christian School, was announced as a STEAM designated school by the Tenn. Department of Education for its work in its elementary grades. Jackson Christian received its first designation in 2018 and was the first area private school to do so. The elementary school was re-evaluated in the 2023-2024 academic year and was awarded a perfect score for STEAM implementation. 

The honor recognizes schools across the state for preparing students for postsecondary and future career success by committing to promote STEM/STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) learning for all students.

Since the designation program launched in 2018, 127 schools have earned the Tennessee STEM/STEAM Designation, which provides a roadmap for schools to successfully implement a STEM/STEAM education plan at the local level.

“We are tremendously proud of our administration team, our teachers, and our champions for the STEAM initiative across our campus,” President of Jackson Christian Dr. Billy Lones said. “Their commitment to excellence and to our students paves the way for bright futures at Jackson Christian.”

Each school that received the Tennessee STEM/STEAM School Designation underwent a rigorous application process, including completion of a self-evaluation, participation in interviews, and hosting site visits. Schools could either apply for a STEM or STEAM Designation through the designation rubric, which includes five focus areas: infrastructure, curriculum and instruction, professional development, achievement, and community and postsecondary partnerships.

STEM/STEAM education is an interdisciplinary curriculum in which activities in one class complement those in other classes. Additionally, it offers teaching and learning opportunities focused on inquiry, technology, and project-based learning activities and lessons connected to the real world.