School selected as ‘Dream Bigger’ contest winner for upcoming podcast
May 11, 2021 – Emporia, Kansas – Schools and organizations serving K-12 students in Emporia recently had the opportunity to win a $3,000 donation from ValuNet Fiber to fund their STEM (science, technology, engineering or math) project or club as part of the internet service provider’s annual “Dream Bigger” social media campaign.
The winner, Village Elementary School, plans to use the winning funds to develop a podcast project under the umbrella of the school’s STREAM (science, technology, reading, engineering, art and math) program.
According to the project entry, submitted by Village Elementary Technology Coach Chelsea Evans, the podcast will serve as a platform for Village students to have a voice and simultaneously connect them with the local and global community. The project is intended to teach K-5 students skills in communications, technology, content development, project management, marketing and more while also introducing them to telecommunications as a potential career pathway.
“The students and staff at Village Elementary could not be more thrilled to be receiving the ValuNet Dream Bigger award,” Evans said. “The funding will provide students with the materials needed to bring our podcasting project to life. Thank you ValuNet for supporting the community, making education and youth development a priority, and helping our students Dream Bigger.”
Village Elementary was one of 5 finalists selected by ValuNet; public voting determined the winner.
“ValuNet is committed to giving back to the Emporia community and we’re proud to play a part in helping to develop the technological skills of a new generation,” said Trish Niemann, Senior Director of Corporate Communications. “We look forward to seeing what Village Elementary students are able to accomplish through their podcast project.”