NEW MIDDLETOWN, Ohio - The Springfield Optimist Club has awarded Springfield Local Intermediate School's Robotic and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Programs with a grant to help improve students' STEM education and better prepare them for a future STEM career.

According to a release, the $1,500 grant will be used to buy a variety of STEM-related items, including a 3D printer, Snap Circuits, Lego blocks and magnetic tiles.

Instructors at the school said this grant will help improve the students' knowledge and academic skills with hands-on learning experiences. 

"These activities transform abstract STEM concepts into tangible experiences and foster creativity and critical thinking," said Instructor Sharon Casto. "These materials develop engineering and creative design skills which can be useful in future careers."