Pendergast District's CSO Program Empowers Next Generation of S.T.E.A.M. Leaders

Pendergast District student named state of Arizona CSO of the Year at the 2023 SciTech STEMMY Awards

Pendergast Elementary School District (PESD) is proud to have the SciTech Institute State of Arizona Chief Science Officer of the Year. The Pendergast District's Chief Science Officer (CSO) Program’s mission is to create a global network of diverse Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (S.T.E.A.M.) leaders. The program is aimed at teaching students how to foster communication and collaboration among CSOs, enrich S.T.E.A.M. culture and career awareness, and amplify student voice in S.T.E.A.M. conversations in the community.

The Pendergast District's CSO program has been providing students with the opportunity to engage in science on a deeper level and design solutions to problems that impact our communities. Students who participate in the program are empowered to take action and make a real difference in the world of science.

One such student is Mia, CSO from Rio Vista Elementary School, who was recently named State of Arizona CSO of the Year. Mia was recognized at the 2023 SciTech Institute STEMMYS and received her award, where she gave an inspirational acceptance speech. Mia's achievement is a testament to the program's success in fostering S.T.E.A.M. leadership among students.

The Pendergast District takes pride in providing exceptional learning opportunities for all students, and the CSO Program is a shining example of this commitment. The program is transforming the voices of science in the community, and students are taking action to create a brighter future.

"We are thrilled to see the impact that our CSO program is having on our students and the community," said Dr. Jennifer Cruz, Superintendent of the Pendergast Elementary School District. "We believe that S.T.E.A.M. education is critical to preparing our students for the future, and we are committed to providing the best learning opportunities possible."

The Pendergast District's CSO program is open to all 6th-8th grade students who are interested in S.T.E.A.M. and want to make a difference in their community.

For more information, please contact:

Ramiro Alvarez, Public Information Officer
ralvarez@pesd92.org
623-251-1743