Hallettsville Elem. opens STEM Center
Made possible through Devon Energy’s partnership with the Cal Ripken Sr
In partnership with the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, Devon Energy opened its 150th science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) Center at Hallettsville Elementary last Tuesday, Feb. 20.
The awarding of Hallettsville ISD with the Center was made possible after Devon employees, Trent Fojtik, Paul Hanslik, Billy Hearn, Justin Henke , Wa d e Kallus, Tyler Pekar and Chip Phillips, also known as the “Devon dads” nominated the school as part of a company-wide contest.
“While STEM centers are normally only available in locations where Devon has operations, the contest allowed employees to nominate any school in the contiguous United States and Hallettsville won the prize,” HISD superintendant Dr. Jo Ann Bludau said.
According to HES principal Stephanie Grahmann, the new addition will enhance students’ education by offering a hands-on learning environment.
“This STEM Center provides a dedicated space for students to engage with high-tech tools and deepen their understanding of STEM,” Grahmann said. “Hallettsville Elementary School is honored to be the 150th STEM Center Devon Energy and the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation have collaborated on together.”
The Ripken Foundation STEM Centers include innovative learning equipment like 3D printers, Snap Circuits, Ozobots and Bee-Bots. These tools help students hone their problem-solving abilities.
“The company believes in the importance of engaging students with STEM principles at a young age,” president and CEO at Devon, Rick Muncrief said. “Early exposure to STEM helps children develop skills in creativity, teamwork and problem-solving, all skills needed in the workforce. STEM education lays the foundation for innovation, allowing students to explore, make mistakes and grow from their experiences. We are proud to bring this opportunity to Hallettsville.”
Steve Salem, president and CEO of the Ripken Foundation, said Devon has been a valuable partner over the last four years.
“We are thankful for Devon’s continual partnership and advocacy of STEM education,” Salem said. “Because of their commitment, we look forward to bringing STEM Centers to even more students in the future.”
Devon has partnered with the Ripken Foundation since 2019 to open STEM Centers in Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, North Dakota and Wyoming.