Van Hollen, Cardin Announce Grant to Upgrade STEM Lab in Bishop Walsh High School

Today U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) announced new federal funding for Bishop Walsh High School in Cumberland. The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) will proved $13,250 to the Bishop Walsh School to help upgrade their Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Lab. Bishop Walsh School will match the funding, bringing the total project funding to $26,500. Every student in the school will benefit from the updated lab.

"STEM jobs are among the most secure and highest-paid in the nation, as evidenced by Maryland's booming biotechnology industry," said Senator Cardin. "But landing those jobs requires extensive, top-notch training and education. This federal investment in Bishop Walsh High School's STEM Lab will go a long way toward ensuring Cumberland's youth have the opportunity to get that training. I'm happy for them and I'm committed to bringing these same opportunities to all of Maryland's students."

"Investing in STEM education is central to Maryland's success. Our state is home to a cutting-edge biotech research and development, which is creating good-paying jobs for our residents. We need to make sure that Maryland students have the skills necessary to fill those jobs. Grants like this are an important part of that effort, and we will continue to fight for investments across the state in education and job training," said Senator Van Hollen.

This grant helps fund the purchase of equipment for the computer lab, including two ViewSonic Instruction Boards, a new printer, new computer desks, and software.

ARC is an economic development agency of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on 420 counties across the Appalachian region. Its mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia and help the region achieve socioeconomic parity with the nation.