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Contact: Taryn Hecker  Public RelationsPhone: (208) 661-3891  Email: taryn@pricelessnotpricey.com

Discover Technology funds robotics lab

and laptops for Sandpoint Charter School

School selected to pilot innovative “Robot Algebra” curriculum

SANDPOINT – Sandpoint Charter School students will soon experience hands-on learning in robotics and technology thanks to a $5,000 grant from Discover Technology (formerly the North Idaho Discovery Association).

Discover Technology founders Dr. Paul Finman and Dr. Lorna Finman awarded the grant as part of an effort to expand opportunities in science and technology in Bonner County.

Sandpoint Charter School will receive a grant for a robotics lab including 12 laptop computers, 12 robotics kits and curriculum.

“The grant is very much in keeping with our project-based, hands-on philosophy,” said Sandpoint Charter Principal Alan Miller. “This is a great thing for us. We appreciate the Finmans’ generosity.”

Discover Technology has awarded more than $500,000 in grants to dozens of robotics teams statewide. More than 3,000 students participate in robotics teams funded by Discover Technology.

“We are excited to expand our efforts in Bonner County to promote science and technology,” said Paul Finman, who manufactures jamming devices that disable roadside bombs and save lives of countless troops.

“We have grants available for public, private and home schools that would like to form robotics teams,” Finman said.

Discover Technology is also providing the opportunity for Sandpoint Charter School teachers to receive training through the prestigious Carnegie Mellon Institute this summer.

Additionally, the school has been chosen by Discover Technology to pilot a Robot Algebra class. Robot Algebra is a program that uses the motivational effects of robotics, music, dance, math, engineering design and competition to promote algebra readiness.

Millar said the robotics curriculum with be implemented in the fall. The school is also in the process of developing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) curriculum for its high school students.

Discover Technology is also funding the STAR Science Center in Rathdrum and the STAR Discovery Bus.

The 20,000-square-foot STAR Science Center will feature world-class interactive exhibits, science laboratories and opportunities for students to explore robotics, molecular biology, alternative energy and agricultural technology.

The STAR Discovery Bus, a mobile classroom and science center, will debut this summer. The STAR Discovery Bus will bring learning opportunities and hands-on exhibits to public, private and home school students in Bonner County and throughout the region.

About Discover Technology

Discover Technology is a non-profit organization founded by Dr. Lorna Finman and Dr. Paul Finman in 2007 to foster learning and innovation in science and technology through hands-on experience and mentor-based programs. Discover Technology strives to inspire youth to explore various pathways into science, math, and technology.  Visit their website or call (208) 661-3891.