Grant money continues to add up for Swampscott STEM program

SWAMPSCOTT – Swampscott software developer Mark Gelfand is extending his grant to Swampscott Public Schools for a fifth year, bringing his contribution to the science, technology, engineering and math program to more than $1 million.”Mark Gelfand has been a tremendous benefactor in what’s become the envy of other districts with the STEM program,” Superintendent Lynne Celli said at this week’s school committee meeting before she was drowned out by applause and a standing ovation for Gelfand, who made an appearance to discuss the future of Swampscott’s cross-curriculum program.”I’m very pleased with how STEM enrichment has been in the school program,” said Gelfand. “It’s impressive to see how both boys and girls are responding.”Gelfand praised Swampscott Public Schools for bringing a hands-on approach to STEM, which he said other school districts didn’t seem to be doing because they were too “entrenched” in their own academic ideas. “Many school systems in the state aren’t keeping up with the rest of the world,” he said. “Maybe other school systems will follow Swampscott’s energizing lead.”Gelfand added that Swampscott still had “lots more to do,” adding bioengineering and biomedical clubs to gain skill sets that were valuable in helping to develop science and technology in other parts of the world.Gelfand remained in the audience for STEM Coordinator Brandy Wilbur’s presentation of the future plans for the high school’s outdoor classroom garden. The garden, already set with raised planting beds, is slated to have a meditation area, classroom tables and amphitheater, depending on fundraising and grants.Kait Taylor can be reached at [email protected].