Ladner Elementary was one of four schools across the country who received LEGO sets to increase access to STEM learning opportunities.
Amazon Canada employees teamed up with FIRST Robotics, an organization focused on engaging youth in mentor-based programs to build STEM skills, and the LEGO Group, to deliver $20,000 worth of surprise STEM toys to elementary schools from coast-to-coast.
“At Amazon, we aim to inspire, educate and prepare youth for careers rooted in innovation, and understand the continuously growing value of skills across science, technology, engineering and mathematics,” says Mikhail Clarkson, General Manager, Amazon Logistics. “We believe in continued support from childhood-to-career and are committed to providing STEM education opportunities to the communities we serve.”
Skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are becoming increasingly important to career innovation and growth. Yet, 76 percent of Canadians recognize the socio-economic barriers to students pursuing an education or future in STEM. Amazon Canada is passionate about supporting the next generation of STEM learners, recognizing four out of five Canadians expect inflation and the effects of the pandemic to have a negative impact on their financial situation this school year. This donation will support Canadian families and ensure students have equal access to STEM learning opportunities in high-priority communities.
STEM education, now also known as STEAM, is a multi-discipline approach to teaching that aims to encourage discussions and problem-solving among students, developing both practical skills and an appreciation for collaboration. Amazon has a long history of increasing access to STEM education for children and young adults. In 2021, the company launched its Future Engineer program, which aims to inspire children to explore careers in STEM by making STEM education more accessible to students from underserved communities.
Facilitated in partnership with FIRST Robotics, the toys were delivered to local schools near Amazon’s delivery stations in Delta, Edmonton, Hamilton and Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.
The deliveries were made on Tuesday, Sept. 13.
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is an international non-profit organization designed to inspire students to pursue further studies and careers in science, engineering, technology, and mathematics.
“Today felt amazing seeing the Amazon Canada truck pull up to the school, opening the doors to surprise us with all the boxes of LEGO for the students here at Ladner Elementary,” said principal Lily Potter. “This donation will be very beneficial to the students to help further their STEM education. We feel very lucky.”
