Newburgh Students Unite for Hidden Figures Exploration

Over 100 scholars from five schools, Newburgh Free Academy West, Heritage Middle School, South Middle School, Temple Hill Academy and Meadow Hill School, united recently for an interdisciplinary exploration of Margot Shetterly’s Hidden Figures, the untold story of African-American women and their extraordinary contributions to NASA in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (S.T.E.M.) fields.

Scholars in grades 8-12 studied these three historical women, who made an impact in a field in which minorities and females were underrepresented.  Through project-based learning, research, presentations and a private screening of Hidden Figures at Showtime Cinemas in Newburgh, scholars were exposed to a four-pronged educational spotlight on this key moment in history.

“NECSD's Discovering Hidden Figures S.T.E.A.M.S exploration was an opportunity for scholars to expand their knowledge, deepen their passion and expose scholars to the ways in which the core subjects are connected and can be relevant to their lives and in the history of our country,” shared Catherine Yaa Yaa Whaley
Director of Mathematics, K – 12. The event was a collaboration between the NECSD’s directors in the core subjects of mathematics, social studies, science, English, arts and technology.

Based on the votes submitted by Grade 8 scholars from HMS, SMS, MH and THA the NFA West STEAM Presentation Winners are as follows:

Science:
Rebecca L.
Alexandra G.

English:
Hannah B.
Deandre J.

Art:
Anthony B.
Evelyn R.
Victoria L.

Honorable mention: Anthony Weaver

Mathematics:
Juanita C.
Ramaine B.

Social Studies:
Rasheed C.
Kayla S.

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!