The St. Charles County Economic Development Council (EDC) is excited to announce an innovative new STEAM grant exclusively for Fine Arts educators.
The Dr. Bernard J. DuBray STEAM Grant for Fine Arts Educators is open to K-12 educators at public and private schools in St. Charles County, Missouri, who teach the following courses:
- Art
- Band
- Choir
- Music
- Orchestra
- Theatre
Successful funding requests will focus on enhancing Fine Arts curricula through the use of technology. Examples include:
- Adaptive technology to bring the arts to diverse learners or students with disabilities.
- Audio/visual equipment to improve fine arts performances or classroom engagement.
- Innovative software programs or equipment for music composition or graphic arts.
EDC President & CEO Scott J. Drachnik expressed his enthusiasm for the new program. "This grant perfectly complements the EDC's long-standing STEM education initiatives," he said. "By supporting the fine arts, we are enhancing our region’s holistic approach to education, blending creativity with science, technology, engineering, and math."
This EDC initiative is made possible thanks to a two-year endowment from retired Fort Zumwalt Superintendent Dr. Bernard J. DuBray.
"The fine arts are not only essential for nurturing creativity and expression, but they also play a vital role in fostering the innovation and critical thinking that drive success in STEAM and STEM fields," DuBray remarked. "By integrating technology into the arts, we create synergies that empower students to think holistically, connect diverse ideas, and excel across disciplines."
Applications may be submitted online through January 31, 2025. Winners will be notified in late February and recognized at the St. Charles County STEM Awards Breakfast in March, along with the winners of the 2025 Randy Schilling STEM Educators Grant.