Sentry invests $1.5M in local schools to expand AI, STEM education
By Brandi Makuski
STEVENS POINT — Four Stevens Point-area school systems will receive a combined $1.5 million from the Sentry Insurance Foundation to expand artificial intelligence and STEM education over the next two years.
The grants, announced Monday, will fund new classroom technology and hands-on learning opportunities through 2028 at the Stevens Point Area School District, Pacelli Catholic Schools, Stevens Point Christian Academy and St. Paul Lutheran School.
The investment is part of Sentry’s long-running Technology Innovation Initiative, which has provided more than $18.2 million to public and private schools in the Stevens Point area since 2009.
“For 18 years, we’ve partnered with local schools to expand access to innovative technology that enhances teaching and learning,” said Kalynn Pempek, executive director of the Sentry Insurance Foundation. “As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, we’re proud to support programs that help students build the knowledge, adaptability and technical skills they’ll need for the future.”
The Stevens Point Area School District will use its grant to launch The AI Forge, an initiative aimed at helping students, teachers and families understand how to use artificial intelligence responsibly and effectively. The project includes a new AI Innovation Lab at the high school equipped with industry-level software for artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics and digital design. The district also plans to partner with UW-Stevens Point and Mid-State Technical College to give students more opportunities to explore AI-related careers.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the Sentry Insurance Foundation for their continued partnership and generous investment in the future of our students, staff and community,” Assistant Superintendent Chris Nyman said. “This contribution to The AI Forge project will expand innovative learning opportunities in artificial intelligence and help ensure our students are not only prepared for the future, but empowered to help shape it.”
Pacelli Catholic High School will create a new SMART Lab STEAM Center where students can work with 3D printers, robotics kits and computers while tackling real-world engineering and design projects. School leaders say the lab will give students practical experience in programming, renewable energy and product development before culminating in a senior capstone course.
“Thanks to the generosity of the Sentry Insurance Foundation, Pacelli Catholic Schools is taking another step forward in innovative learning,” Pacelli President Philip VanDenBrink said. “The Technology Innovation Initiative empowers our students to pursue their future career paths with confidence and high-level preparation.”
Stevens Point Christian Academy will continue expanding its STEAM Education Project by incorporating more technology into reading instruction, coding, robotics, product design and environmental science.
“The Sentry Insurance Foundation Technology Innovation Initiative means opportunities for our school community,” Principal Heidi Uitenbroek said. “Students will strengthen reading and writing while exploring entrepreneurship, design, coding, AI robotics and ecological mapping.”
At St. Paul Lutheran School, the funding will support a STEM Career Pathways Innovation Project that connects classroom lessons with careers in science and engineering. Students will use advanced simulation software while exploring subjects ranging from chemistry and agriculture to genetics and space science through project-based learning and mentorships.
“Through continued partnership with the Sentry Foundation, St. Paul Lutheran School seeks to expand its tradition of innovation by connecting STEM learning to real careers,” teacher and technology director Sue Lilienthal said. “This initiative will prepare students to become skilled problem-solvers, collaborators and leaders in tomorrow’s workforce.”
Foundation officials said the Technology Innovation Initiative is designed to help local schools keep pace with rapidly changing technology while giving students the skills they’ll need whether they continue their education or enter the workforce after graduation.