Indian Head, MD — Charles County Public Schools celebrated their partnership with the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology Division at a ceremony during the Charles County Fair on Friday.
The agreement hopes to give students a chance to experience practical real-world applications of their STEM education and prepare them for science and technology related jobs after graduation.
CCPS Superintendent said that NSWC had provided opportunities for students for many years, though there hasn’t been a formal partnership until now.
“NSWC IHEODTD provides judges for our Science Fair, mentors and funding for robotics programs and research opportunities for high school students through the Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program during the summer.”
NSWC IHEODTD will provide CCPS students surplus U.S. Navy technology and command personnel will offer advice and mentorship to students.
CCPS – in turn – will make laboratory equipment and facilities available to the command, as well as providing opportunities for NSWC IHEODTD to assist in the CCPS educational curriculum.
NSWC IHEODTD STEM Coordinator Dr. Martin Chernoff said this agreement will be help make sure the next generation of scientists and engineers are ready for the workforce.
“This agreement is a formal step to a partnership that spans decades. The intent is to be more strategic in how we engage and educate the students of Charles County,” Chernoff said. “We want to be an active force in their education, but we want to do it as effectively as possible. By allowing them access to command technology and mentors, we can prepare them for careers in STEM and ensure the continued effectiveness of the U.S. Navy.”