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Alcoa Foundation Partners with Governor’s School for Science and Math to Host Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship Camp

The South Carolina Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics (GSSM) received a grant of $15,000 on August 23, 2011, from the Alcoa Foundation. The grant enhances support of the School’s Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship Among Middle Schoolers (iTEAMS) summer camp program.

ITEAMS provides enrichment experiences in economics, entrepreneurship and computer innovation to rising 8th and 9th graders in Berkeley County, SC. The program inspires students to pursue studies in computer science, engineering, programming and business and guides them toward careers in these fields, building a stronger workforce for Berkeley County and South Carolina.

Launched three years ago with seed funding from Google, iTEAMS is now headed for expansion as Alcoa, Google and GSSM join forces. Over the past three summers, the program served 168 of the approximately 6,400 students in Berkeley County middle schools. With this increased funding, GSSM can move closer to its goal of 200 campers in June 2012.

By growing the program’s reach, GSSM hopes to increase Berkeley County students’ interest in computer science and math, as well as their understanding of business, entrepreneurship and computer technology. Further, GSSM anticipates more camp participants to later enroll in career and technical education and honors math courses.

“Alcoa and the Alcoa Foundation are committed to supporting educational programs that prepare students for success in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers,” said Mike Rousseau, Mt. Holly plant manager. “The School's iTEAMS program will not only expose Berkeley County students to career possibilities in these areas, but also enhance critical professional skills such as teamwork, creativity and critical thinking. We are proud to be a partner in this fun and new opportunity for middle school students in our community.”

Alcoa is the world’s leading producer of aluminum with locations in 31 countries around the world. The Foundation focuses on four areas of excellence when selecting organizations and projects to support. These include conservation and sustainability; education and workplace skills; business and community partnerships; and healthy children and families. GSSM is extremely grateful for Alcoa’s support and excited for the opportunities this grant will provide South Carolina students.