Evoline C. West Elementary Receives Georgia STEM Recertification
Evoline C. West Elementary has earned Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) recertification from the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE), marking a continued commitment to high-quality, real-world learning. In 2018, the school became the first elementary school in Georgia to receive this distinction.
One example of STEM school practices in action can be seen in E. C. West’s 5th grade project-based learning (PBL) on power outages in their community and the effects of natural disasters. Students collected and analyzed real data and researched careers that address these challenges. They designed customized emergency kits, calculated per‑person costs, created technology‑based infographics to support family preparedness, and assembled model kits they will sell to raise funds for families in need of critical supplies.
Principal Jill Meeker shared, “This work requires high-level math, science, and writing skills, and is an opportunity for innovation and real‑world problem‑solving. A social element of PBL is not required, but it helps students build community and empathy.”
Following the extensive STEM application process, the state sends content directors for a school walk-through. The directors’ main objective is to see if the students are applying what they have learned and can speak to the work.
Schools must provide documentation that STEM practices are pervasive and consistent. According to the GaDOE, certified STEM schools demonstrate a long-term commitment to interdisciplinary instruction through PBL. Schools connect with community partners on projects. This also offers students opportunities for career exploration, mentoring, and exposure to experts in various STEM fields. It strengthens the connection between classroom learning and real‑world applications.
At E. C. West, this work is led by an interdisciplinary team known as MIST, which includes a media specialist, instructional technology, STEM leadership, and teachers. The state provides a rubric with 25 building parameters including critical thinking, communication, and student-led discovery, among others. A STEM Process Wheel helps define the certification steps. E. C. West is now in the Share and Improve phase of the wheel, imparting knowledge and practices to other schools.
According to Fulton County Schools STEM Coordinator Nicole Ford, certified STEM schools outperform similar non-certified schools by an average of 12 % on state assessments over a three-year period, underscoring the impact of integrated, inquiry-based learning.
While recertification is typically required every five years, pandemic-related challenges delayed the process. E. C. West remained committed and successfully achieved recertification in 2026, reinforcing its role in preparing students not only for careers, but to make a meaningful difference in their communities.
