Edmond P. Talbot Middle School has been selected as one of eight schools nationwide to begin a multi-year process toward becoming a Smithsonian STEAM School of Distinction.
A team from the Fall River school is participating in a five-day Strategic Planning Institute in Washington, D.C., according to a community announcement, marking the first step in a three-year program led by the Smithsonian Science Education Center.
The initiative recognizes schools that take a comprehensive approach to integrating science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics into instruction and school culture.
Representing Fall River Public Schools are Kimberly Laliberte, director of science; Lisa Zagarella Coutu, Talbot’s principal; Yvone Rego, math-science department head; and Aidan Shane, a Project Lead The Way science teacher. Daniela Munoz and Marquis Taylor, representing Coaching4Change, are also part of the team supporting the process.
During the institute, participants are working with Smithsonian educators and peers from across the country to build a five-year plan aimed at expanding STEAM programming and resources at the school.
Following the institute, the team will continue working with the Smithsonian Science Education Center while implementing the plan and working toward official designation.
Talbot was the only school selected in Massachusetts and the only one in New England, according to the announcement. Schools from Illinois, Maryland, Indiana, North Carolina, California and Alabama were also selected.
"We are honored that Talbot Middle School has been selected for this national opportunity," said Interim Superintendent Kathleen Smith. "Talbot was not only the only school selected in Massachusetts, but also the only school in New England chosen for this prestigious opportunity. The recognition reflects our district’s ongoing commitment to providing students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences that foster creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving."
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