YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Youngstown City School District (YCSD) announced on Wednesday that Youngstown Rayen Early College High School (YREC) has received a $20,000 grant  to support the expansion of the school's STEAM (Science Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics program for the upcoming school year.

The grant from Howmet Aerospace Foundation will allow YREC to purchase equipment and supplies for science classes and the school's Makers Space, a designated area for students and teachers to create and design projects.

The funds will be used for items like a CNC mill, laser, 3D printers, hand power tools, a t-shirt press, microscopes and laboratory glassware.

The Foundation previously awarded several grants to YREC in STEAM-related areas. Science teacher, Mark Robinson says he's benefited from these grants now, as well as into the future.

"The Makers Space for example is a communal place for collaboration and creativity. Students learn about teamwork, improve their communication skills and have state-of-the-art access to equipment," Robinson said.

During the upcoming school year, tours will be available for current and future students and YCSD staff. Additionally, YREC will be holding training classes for students and staff to learn how to use the new equipment safely.