Earlier this year the Oak Ridge City Council and School Board voted to allow the school district to transfer funds from the Schools balance fund to use in readying Oak Ridge to be the “Premiere STEM School District in America.” I have had people tell me various things as to what this expenditure provides. In some cases I was not sure myself. I have talked to some that believe the expenditure was to get tablets for each student.
I have attached a presentation by Dr. Bruce Borchers which explains the need for STEM education, the work needed to implement the STEM district with steps for identification of staff coaches and professional development of teachers. The presentation also gives the goals that students should possess as they leave college to go the workforce. It gives example pathways for students from middle school through college in to their professions. When implemented our city will benefit with a well trained workforce, trained professional and teacher experts which will help bring new technologies and businesses to Oak Ridge. Of course the school system is just one facet that makes Oak Ridge a great place for those. Working together, we can harness the qualities and amenities of Oak Ridge to brighten the future for all Oak Ridge residents.
As a parent I am glad where our school system is but also excited about where we are going.
Example student pathways
Mike Mahathy for BOE 
Hopefully this plan will work because right now most of the students educated here are not choosing to stay here, work here, or raise a family here. The city of Oak Ridge is very “old” and there’s not much to draw the “20 something” generation in/back after college. I think it’s called a “brain drain”. There’s so much more “life” outside of OR going on.
You are right. I hope so too. The school is just one part too. Lack of housing is a big issue.