Beatrice Public Schools was awarded a $7,500 Big Red Math & Science grant to enhance hands-on STEM learning opportunities for students at both Beatrice Elementary School and Beatrice Middle School.
The grant funding will support the purchase of a Glowforge Plus Laser Cutter for Beatrice Middle School and a Flashforge 3D Printer for Beatrice Elementary School. These innovative technologies will provide students with opportunities to design, create, and produce real-world products while strengthening skills in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and entrepreneurship.
As part of the grant process, students participated in STEM showcases held on Thursday, May 7, at both Beatrice Elementary School and Beatrice Middle School.
At Beatrice Elementary School, students shared their 3D-printed creations alongside stories they had written to accompany their designs. Team members from Big Red Math & Science were able to visualize the characters and concepts students created through the detailed descriptions and imaginative storytelling presented by the students.
At Beatrice Middle School, students demonstrated their creativity and problem-solving skills by designing custom BMS House keychains using digital design concepts. The middle school students guided the visiting team through their creative process and shared how they plan to help mentor and support additional students during the 2026–2027 school year.