Shouting out praise for teachers and sharing fist bumps with students, Colorado Governor Jared Polis visited Colorado STEM Academy earlier this month to celebrate the school’s recognition as a “Bright Spot” award winner.

 

The recognition was for schools that showed above-average achievement in science last year. It comes with a $50,000 federal grant to support the continuation of expanded science and technology programs.

 

“It’s great to see the work Westminster is doing around STEM education,” the Governor said while speaking with Superintendent Jeni Gotto. “We know how important science, engineering, and math are for kids’ futures and it’s exciting to see kids get these kinds of opportunities in Westminster.”

 

While visiting with students, Polis met with student, Favian Saucedo, who showed him a model he built of a Saturn 5 Rocket. The Governor asked a lot of questions about his interest in space and engineering.

 

Estelle Loppnow also showed the governor her award-winning piece of art called, “One Hand Can Help” which depicts a hand reaching out to help clean the ocean. The piece was submitted to the National PTA Reflections competition.

 

Before leaving, the Governor said he looked forward to coming back in the future to visit the Iver C. Ranum Innovation Campus which opened in August.