Red Oak Elementary and G.R. Edwards Elementary Earn a Recommendation for NC STEM School of Distinction
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, May 4, 2026
NASH COUNTY, NC — Nash County Public Schools is proud to share that Red Oak Elementary School and GR Edwards Elementary School have been recommended for recognition as a North Carolina Model STEM Schools of Distinction (SSoD). This designation is the highest honor awarded to schools demonstrating a strong commitment to innovative teaching and learning. Red Oak Elementary welcomed a state site visit on February 25, 2026, providing an opportunity to highlight the incredible work taking place at the school each day. G.R. Edwards Elementary hosted its site visit on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, which also served as a strong showcase of the great things happening throughout the school.
The recommended recognition comes through the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s STEM Schools of Distinction program, which identifies schools demonstrating exemplary implementation of high-quality STEM education. The formal designation will not be issued until the State Board of Education meeting in the fall; at this time, it is just a recommendation.
The STEM Schools of Distinction program evaluates schools using the NCDPI STEM School Progress Rubric, which focuses on five key principles: student opportunities, classroom environment, school structures, school culture, and community connections. Schools recognized through the process demonstrate strong alignment with these principles by providing meaningful, hands-on learning experiences and opportunities for students to engage with real-world challenges. G.R. Edwards Elementary School earned a perfect score on their evaluation and rubric, an outstanding accomplishment!
At both elementary schools, teachers and staff work to create engaging learning environments where students collaborate, explore, and apply critical thinking skills across Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Through project-based learning and community partnerships, students connect classroom learning to real-world problem-solving.
“The work happening at Red Oak Elementary and GR Edwards Elementary shows how powerful STEM education can be when it is embedded into a school’s culture. Their recommendation as a Model STEM School of Distinction celebrates a commitment to preparing students to think critically, collaborate, and solve the challenges of tomorrow," says Marcy Keener, the Nash County Public Schools STEM Coordinator.
Allison Williams, Principal of Red Oak Elementary School, goes on to say that “Receiving the recommendation for the NC STEM Model School of Distinction designation is an incredible honor for Red Oak Elementary. I am extremely proud of our students, teachers, and staff for their commitment to innovative learning and problem-solving. This recognition reflects the hard work, collaboration, and dedication of our entire school community as we continue to create meaningful STEM experiences that prepare our students for the future.”
"Since opening our doors in July 2024, our team has worked with purpose and urgency to build a school culture centered on high-quality teaching and learning. Through intentional integration of STEM practices such as collaboration, problem-solving, and real-world application, this recommended recognition reflects our collective effort and affirms the strong momentum we have established as a model for exemplary STEM education." Dr. Allen M. Wilson, Principal of GR Edwards Elementary.
“I am incredibly proud of both Red Oak Elementary and G.R. Edwards Elementary,” said Dr. Steve Ellis, Superintendent of Nash County Public Schools. “These schools exemplify strong leadership and a clear commitment to preparing students for the future. Their intentional integration of STEM practices highlights the innovative work happening across our district.”
Nash County Public Schools continues to prioritize STEM education as a key component of preparing students for future success. STEM learning encourages innovation, collaboration, and effective communication while helping students develop the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Red Oak Elementary and GR Edwards Elementary will be recognized locally for this achievement at an upcoming Nash County Board of Education meeting in May.
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Media Contact:
Caroline Johnson
Communications Department