BEDFORD — A local youth program focused on science and technology education has received a financial boost through a nationwide grant initiative.
Sparklight has awarded a $2,500 grant to the Lawrence County 4-H Superior STEAM program as part of its annual “Dream Bigger” competition, which supports science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) projects in communities the company serves.
The Dream Bigger program draws applicants from across Sparklight’s 24-state footprint. After entries are narrowed down by the company’s central office in Phoenix, finalists are put to a public vote on social media to determine which organizations receive funding. Each year, Sparklight awards 12 grants of $2,500.
Sam McGill, Sparklight’s director of regional operations, visited the Superior STEAM facility at 1301 I Street to present the award and tour the program. During the visit, he observed demonstrations from students and learned more about the hands-on activities offered.
“Over 80 kids participating, getting to take the tour and see all that these kids do, this is an impressive group,” McGill said. “Well deserved of a STEM grant.”
The Superior STEAM program, part of the Lawrence County 4-H initiative, offers students opportunities to explore robotics, engineering, coding, and other technical skills through interactive projects.
McGill said Sparklight’s investment reflects its broader mission to support education and digital access in smaller communities.
“At Sparklight, we operate in small towns and communities across 24 states, so we know that these grants and other things we are able to do in these communities can make a difference,” he said. “We are just happy to support the kids and young people in our community, especially with literacy, with digital learning, and education. What you are all doing here certainly fits into our charitable goals of what we want to help with in the communities we serve.”
The grant will help expand resources and provide additional learning opportunities for participating students, as interest in STEM education continues to grow locally.
To learn more about Superior STEAM, visit their website here.
