Academy Receives Champlin Foundation Grant for STEAM Program

Saint Raphael Academy was awarded a grant from The Champlin Foundation of nearly $30,000 for science and technology equipment to further the Academy’s STEAM initiative.

The grant will be used to purchase 3D printers, new interactive white boards, and supplies for AP Chemistry and AP Biology classes. Funds will also be used to start an after-school robotics club.

Saint Raphael Academy has partnered with Roger Williams University/School of Continuing Education and Diocese of Providence Catholic School Office to integrate STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art +Design, Math) education into its mission, curriculum, programs, instruction, planning and community engagement. Integrated STEAM education is a priority in SRA’s multi-year planning strategic plan. Presently, every faculty member has committed to infusing at least one STEAM-related project into their curriculum for the 2017-18 school year and to share through Best Practices Professional Learning sessions with their colleagues.

The Champlin Foundation grant will provide more opportunities for the Academy’s diverse community. “We strive to be competitive with other schools and bring a higher level of education to our students. Incorporating STEAM into our curriculum is a way to address career paths in which our students are showing interest,” said Judy Baxter, Vice Principal of Academics.

The Champlin Foundation is pleased to provide grant funding to Saint Raphael Academy to help this important institution advance its vital mission. Champlin Foundation grants are awarded on a competitive basis and the grant to Saint Raphael Academy is a reflection of its confidence in the organization’s ability to improve the lives of Rhode Islanders in significant ways.

Since 1932, The Champlin Foundation has awarded more than $550 million to fund capital projects and equipment for Rhode Island non-profit organizations. These investments have fostered better medical care, improved education, expanded access to social services, conservation of open spaces, preservation of historic buildings, enrichment of the arts, advancement of animal welfare and more. Quietly and steadfastly, The Champlin Foundation helps those who do good do more – to the benefit of all.