OKCPS middle schools receive cutting edge mobile STEM labs

Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) implemented mobile STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) labs in all their middle schools and two fifth-grade classrooms with the support of Devon Energy and the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation. 

According to a Devon Energy press release, this is the latest phase in the groundbreaking partnership between Devon and the Ripken Foundation.  

The companies partnered in 2019 to help bring STEM labs to all 33 OKCPS elementary schools. 

“Now, students graduating from elementary school will be able to extend their STEM education and have access to new tools designed for their growing minds."

"The district is truly grateful for the continued support and generosity from Devon and the Ripken Foundation,” said OKCPS Superintendent Dr. Sean McDaniel. 

This is the first time the Ripken Foundation has provided an entire district of middle schools with mobile STEM labs.

“We know getting kids involved in STEM education early and often positively impacts their professional success and our future workforce needs,” said OKCPS Foundation President and CEO Mary Mélon-Tully.

“The Foundation extends its sincere thanks to Devon and the Ripken Foundation for giving middle school students exposure to these hands-on, exploratory learning environments.” 

Devon Energy and the Ripken Foundation have implemented STEM Labs in Oklahoma and four other states: New Mexico, North Dakota, Wyoming and Texas. More than 200 STEM labs have been created nationwide. 

“These mobile STEM labs will give middle school students the equipment they need to explore different scientific areas and achieve their full potential,” Cal Ripken, Sr.  Foundation President and CEO, Steve Salem said.

“We’re thrilled to expand our partnership with Devon and provide students with technological learning tools beyond elementary school.” 

Rick Muncrief, president and CEO of Devon said the company is committed to strengthening educational opportunities for children of all ages. 

“Devon wants to inspire future STEM leaders to build confidence and expand their creativity throughout their academic careers,” Muncrief said.

“By continuing to invest in these children as they move from elementary school to middle school, we’re helping them further develop their critical thinking skills and instill a lifelong love of scientific learning.” 

Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation Sr. VP of STEM Joe Rossow, Wheeler Middle School Principal Deserae Jackson, OKCPS Superintendent Sean McDaniel, Devon Energy President & CEO Rick Muncrief, Wheeler Instructional Coach McKenzie Hodge and OKCPS Foundation President & CEO Mary Mélon-Tully celebrate the opening of new middle school mobile STEM labs.