In today’s rapidly evolving world, education must adapt to prepare students for the careers of tomorrow. The debate between STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and STEAM (which includes the Arts) has gained attention in schools nationwide, including right here in Ardmore. While STEM focuses on technical skills, adding the arts through STEAM fosters creativity, problem-solving, and innovation—qualities that employers increasingly seek. At Ardmore City Schools, we are preparing our Tiger Family from day 1 in Pre-K.
Ardmore City Schools recognize the value of both approaches. Recently, the district has prioritized quality STEM and STEAM learning environments, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education. At Ardmore City Schools, students from lower elementary grade levels all the way up through high school are using STEAM education more than ever. From hands-on science experiments at Ardmore Middle School to proposed STEAM-dedicated spaces in the new high school plans, the district is committed to equipping students with the skills needed for the future.
Not only does a STEAM framework teach students how to think critically, problem-solve, and use creativity, but it also prepares students to work in fields that are poised for growth. A report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects growth in STEM and STEAM-related occupations of 8% between now and 2029, compared to 3.4% for non-STEM occupations. It also lists median annual wages of $86,980 for STEM/STEAM jobs, compared to $39,810 for all occupations.
At Ardmore City Schools, students of all ages are engaging in fun, innovative STEAM-related projects. Elementary students are using LEGO kits to model real-world activities, while secondary classes are learning to code and fly drones. Ardmore High School is already ahead of the curve, offering an Aerospace Engineering class that prepares students for opportunities in aviation and aerospace industries. With Oklahoma being a national leader in aerospace, these programs provide students with a direct path to high-demand, high-paying careers.
Beyond the classroom, Ardmore City Schools is dedicated to bringing STEM and STEAM education to families. Did you know that every elementary school in the district hosts at least two STEM/STEAM nights each year? These events provide hands-on learning experiences for families, allowing parents and children to explore science and engineering together. Over 500 parents and guardians participate in these nights alongside their children at every school—an incredible level of engagement! Activities have included airplane building and flying, jelly bean construction, float and sink experiments, robotic bowling, rocket launching, and more. I encourage you to attend if you haven’t ever been to one. It’s amazing what our staff puts together to invest in our students and their families.
To continue this success, updated STEM and STEAM classrooms are essential. Modern learning environments equipped with the latest technology and hands-on learning tools ensure that students are fully prepared to meet the demands of the future workforce. Investing in these spaces means investing in the future of Ardmore City Schools students.
For our students, having access to STEM and STEAM education means more than just learning equations or artistic techniques—it means developing critical thinking skills, collaboration, and adaptability. It could make the difference in many of our students' lives that may not ever be able to experience this anywhere else. It means becoming good students, great employees, and even better citizens of our community.
Whether students pursue careers in engineering, healthcare, design, or aviation, this foundation will help them succeed. As Ardmore City Schools continue to invest in high-quality STEM and STEAM education, the Tiger Family vision remains clear: to inspire and prepare students for success in college, careers, and beyond.
It’s always a great day to be an Ardmore Tiger and wonderful things are happening at Ardmore City Schools.
Raise the Bar,
Andy Davis
Ardmore City Schools Superintendent