HCS STEM Center

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Two people lean over a table, examining various craft supplies.

Three people gather around a table, examining objects.

stem students

ABOUT US —

What is the STEM Center?

The Hardeman County STEM Center at 909 Pruitt Street is a dynamic, student-centered space designed to ignite curiosity, foster creativity, and empower learners through hands-on exploration in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Serving students in grades 4–8, the Hardeman County STEM Center provides equitable access to engaging, standards-aligned activities that connect classroom learning to real-world problems and careers.

Our vision is to create a space where students become innovators, problem-solvers, and critical thinkers. In the Hardeman County Learning Center, learning is active and collaborative. Students build, test, design, and explore through project-based challenges, lab investigations, and engineering tasks. Whether constructing balloon-powered vehicles, coding simple programs, or testing soil for local agricultural applications, students are encouraged to ask questions, think deeply, and take ownership of their learning.

Three students conduct a science experiment, using tools and a tray.

A group of girls and a woman hold up 'Girls Who Code' t-shirts in a classroom.

Students work on a STEM project, constructing structures with cardboard tubes and tape.

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A group of students pose together, one holding a Lego creation.

Spotlights

Deana Sain being named the 2025 Tennessee Rural Education Association - Teacher of the Year

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We are happy to announce Mrs. Deana Sain being named the 2025 Tennessee Rural Education Association - Teacher of the Year!

Deana was 1 of 60 nominees for the Tennessee Rural Education Association Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Sain was selected by the TREA committee to represent Tennessee at the National Rural Education Association conference this fall. She will receive a prize of $500 and a complimentary registration and travel to the conference in Salt Lake City, Utah.

"We are fortunate to have Mrs. Sain's expertise, experience, and passion for STEM education driving our efforts to create innovative, hands-on learning opportunities. Her leadership in experiential learning not only enriches and elevates what happens in our classrooms, but also expands access and impact—especially in rural education, where such opportunities can be truly transformative," said Hardeman County Director of Schools, Dr. Christy Smith.

Thank you, Mrs. Sain, for the work you do in making the STEM Center such a valuable resource for our students!

#STEM #FutureReady #HardemanCountyTn #RuralEducation #ruraleducationmatters

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