With streamers flying and an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, Lytle ISD celebrated the grand opening of its new, state-of-the-art STEM Center on Jan. 13. The facility, housed in the elementary school building, was made possible through a partnership between Rowan Digital Infrastructure, the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, and the district.
The ceremony was attended by local leaders including Mayor Ruben Gonzalez, Medina County Precinct 2 Commissioner Larry Sittre, and representatives from Rowan Digital Infrastructure and the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, all of whom joined together to commemorate this significant investment in the future of our Pirates.
Following the official opening, students from the fifth grade showed off coding skills, electronic circuitry knowledge and expertise in robotics and 3D printing, all of which are supported by the new center.
“This new STEM Center builds on Lytle ISD’s investment in education technology and will inspire curiosity and creativity in our students, providing them with invaluable opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in a hands-on environment,” said Dr. Dustin Breithaupt, Superintendent of Lytle ISD. “We are deeply grateful for the support and vision of Rowan and the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation.”
The foundation has established more than 800 STEM Centers nationwide to inspire curiosity and learning through hands-on engagement. Rowan Digital Infrastructure is developing the Project Cinco data center campus near Lytle and is invested in supporting the community.
“We hope to empower students with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world,” said Tim Alborg, Director of Government and Community Affairs at Rowan.
STEM Center Grand Opening photos by Dulce O. Martinez https://photos.app.goo.gl/ThX9nFixZdf5ip6j7