Beatrice Arvie, Scotlandville Magnet High School’s Engineering/Magnet coordinator, is the recipient of two Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Grants ($1,000 each) funded by the National Action Committee for Minorities in Engineering (NACME). 

The NACME STEM grant program is designed to provide sixth- through 12th-grade teachers in inner-city communities with funding for projects that make students aware of engineering opportunities. The projects are aimed at turning classroom lessons into real-world applications that bring science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts to life.

The primary goal of Arvie’s first project, Engineering Extravaganza, has been to recruit incoming ninth-grade students for the high school’s Academy of Engineering.  As part of the effort, students and their parents participate in hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) activities.  Participants also have the opportunity to meet the school staff and current engineering students. 

Arvie’s second project, Girls in Engineering, Math and Science (GEMS), is designed to increase the female population of the Academy of Engineering by 50 percent by providing a fun and informative introductory event.

Founded in 1974, the National Action Council for Minority Engineers (NACME) is a non-profit organization that encourages the pursuit of engineering careers among minorities underrepresented in the field.  NACME's goal is to increase the overall numbers of African-American, Latino and Native American engineers and engineering students.