Sentry Insurance Headquarters. Image courtesy: Sentry Insurance
STEVENS POINT, WI (WSAU) — The Sentry Foundation has given a combined $1.5 million to four Stevens Point Schools to boost AI and STEM learning centers.
“For 18 years, we’ve partnered with local schools to expand access to innovative technology that enhances teaching and learning,” said Sentry Insurance Foundation Executive Director Kalynn Pempek. “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.”
Money will be shared between the Stevens Point Area Public Schools, Pacelli, Stevens Point Christian Academy, and St. Paul Lutheran Schools. Projects that will benefit from the funding include an AI Innovation Lab for the Stevens Point school district and integrated STEAM learning centers at the three private schools.
In a press release, leaders from all four schools praised the move:
“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. 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. Through expanded access to AI learning experiences, industry-aligned technology, and partnerships with UWSP and Mid-State Technical College, our students will develop the critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and technical skills needed to thrive in an AI-enabled workforce. Sentry’s long-standing commitment to education continues to make a meaningful impact across our district and community.” – Chris Nyman, Assistant Superintendent, Stevens Point Area School District
“Thanks to the generosity of the Sentry Insurance Foundation, Pacelli Catholic Schools is taking another step forward in innovative learning. The Technology Innovation Initiative empowers our students to pursue their future career paths with confidence and high-level preparation. We are proud to work alongside Sentry to foster a tradition of educational success here in our community.” – Philip VanDenBrink, President, Pacelli Catholic Schools
“The Sentry Insurance Foundation Technology Innovation Initiative means opportunities for our school community. Students will strengthen reading and writing while exploring entrepreneurship, design, coding, AI robotics, and ecological mapping. This learning engagement will provide teachers with an avenue to spark curiosity, deepen engagement, and help each student discover their destiny while utilizing their unique gifts and interests. Our students will use these skills to build successful careers after graduation. We are incredibly thankful for this opportunity through the Sentry Insurance Foundation Technology Innovation Initiative.” – Heidi Uitenbroek, Principal, Stevens Point Christian Academy
“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. Building on the success of our previous STEM gamification project, this initiative will prepare students to become skilled problem-solvers, collaborators, and leaders in tomorrow’s workforce.” – Sue Lilienthal, Teacher and Technology Director, St. Paul Lutheran School
Since 2009, the Sentry Foundation has provided nearly $19 million to public and private schools in Stevens Point.
Comments