New educational opportunities are rising for students in Saginaw County. These opportunities are being made possible by the expansion of the Lockwood STEM Center located on the Hemlock Public School District campus at 700 N. Pine Street. Construction is underway and will be complete in the fall of 2024. This expansion continues transforming our facility into a world-class center, serving as a vital resource for our community and region. The current STEM Center is a 5,700-square-foot facility designed for fabrication and other robotics activities. The STEM Labs doubles the size of the STEM Center. It includes a Computing and Design Lab, a 3D Print Lab, an Electronics Lab, and even a Lego Lab devoted to the youngest students.
Superintendent Killingbeck said, "As the walls go up at the Lockwood STEM Center, the Hemlock Public School District is in full swing, sleeves rolled up, deeply engaged in the meaningful work of enhancing our educational infrastructure. This project is more than just a building; it's a beacon of our commitment to the future. We are immensely proud of our roots and even more excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for our students.
One of the greatest challenges facing Michigan is the development of high-tech talent. Providing educational opportunities after high school is often too little too late. Pre-K through 12 STEM programs are part of the solution. After-school programs like FIRST Robotics and Square One are effective. These programs inspire students with hands-on authentic STEM experiences. However, these programs impact a fraction of the student population. How can we reach more students and introduce them to opportunities provided by high-tech careers?
Hemlock Public School District, and MichAuto through a grant from the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification will develop learning experiences created and vetted at the STEM Center which can then be used around the state. This Regional STEM Pilot will give our team the ability to develop curriculum in a resource-rich environment and then move these projects directly into the classroom. The STEM Labsâ Computing and Design Lab, Electronics Lab, 3D Print Lab and Lego Lab will provide a unique environment for experimentation. It also will provide direct support for students in the region.
In closing, Superintendent Killingbeck offered: âA heartfelt thanks goes to Pumford Construction Inc. and all our sponsors, including MERRILL, a Keel Company, Hemlock Semiconductor, MichAuto, and the many others whose generosity is pivotal. Your support not only fuels our progress but also inspires our community to dream bigger. Together, we are constructing a foundation for a future where our students are not just learners but innovators and leaders. Thank you for investing in their futures and in the enduring legacy of the Hemlock Public School District."