Extreme Classroom Makeover

Program Description:
An annual competition that awards one public school STEM teacher with $25,000 in new equipment and technology to upgrade their classroom. The program was launched in 2008 to help improve STEM education in public schools and has awarded over $500,000 in technology to local schools since its inception.

Eligibility

• Grade levels: Must teach grades 3-10
• Subject areas: STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, and math)
• Geographic scope: Public schools within 50 miles of Oak Ridge, Tennessee
• Institution type: Public schools only

Program Focus

• Advancing STEM education and student engagement
• Providing cutting-edge tools and technology for classrooms
• Supporting teachers in reaching students in the modern age of learning
• Encouraging broader benefits (grade-level or department-wide impact preferred over individual classroom improvements)

Application Requirements

• Must submit a video (creative requirement)
• Application requires enthusiasm and vision for STEM education
• Must demonstrate how the makeover will benefit students and potentially extend impact beyond individual classroom
• Entries are evaluated on creativity, passion, and potential impact
• There is a "Viewers' Choice" voting component

Geographic Scope

East Tennessee, specifically within 50 miles of Oak Ridge, Tennessee

Contact Information

Communications Team:

• Pam Bonee, Director of Communications: (865) 603-5142, Pam.Bonee@orau.org
• Wendy West, Manager of Communications: (865) 207-7953, Wendy.West@orau.org

Background

ORAU launched this program in conjunction with the completion of its new Oak Ridge office building that includes a Center for Science Education and technology-rich demonstration classroom. The program addresses the challenge that teachers and school systems often struggle to fund quality science, technology, engineering and math exploration opportunities for their students.

Application Process

1. Preparation Phase
- Start planning early (application window is open for 2.5 months)
- Gather a team to help with video production and application (recruit from parents, students, or staff)
- Develop your vision for classroom/grade/department transformation

2. Video Submission
- Create and edit a video showcasing your STEM education vision
- Video should demonstrate your enthusiasm and passion for STEM education
- Include student excitement and perspectives on technology
- Show your creative approach to STEM teaching

3. Application Submission
- Submit application through the online portal
- Include completed application form
- Submit your video as part of application
- Application must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on deadline date

4. Voting Component
- Entries are subject to public/community voting (Viewers' Choice)
- Rally support from your network for the voting phase

Required Materials

• Video submission (required)
• Completed application form
• Written application detailing your vision
• Evidence of STEM teaching credentials/grade levels taught

Key Tips for Strong Applications

• Think big and demonstrate how the makeover could benefit an entire grade level or department, not just your individual classroom
• Show enthusiasm and passion for STEM education
• Feature student excitement and involvement
• Demonstrate creativity in your approach
• Start early and don't wait until the deadline
• Collaborate with others for video production and support