Savannah Chatham County Public School System (SCCPS) Update:
- Two SCCPSS teachers, Dr. Serene Lee and Sam Sacks, were named 2026 Don Cargill STEM Scholars.
- Each recipient will receive a $500 grant to purchase materials for enhancing STEM classroom learning.
- The Don Cargill STEM Scholar Award honors educators who inspire curiosity, innovation, and independent thinking in K–8 STEM.
- GYSTC, a nonprofit based at Kennesaw State University, advances K–8 interest and enthusiasm in science and technology.
Georgia Youth Science and Technology Centers recently named their 2026 Don Cargill STEM Scholars and the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System is one of only three districts statewide with two winners! Hubert Middle School Teacher Dr. Serene Lee
and New Hampstead K-8 School Teacher Sam Sacks
have been recognized for their outstanding efforts to engage and improve student learning in STEM disciplines. Each of these dedicated teachers will received a $500 grant in January to be used to purchase STEM education materials for their classrooms.
The Don Cargill STEM Scholar Award honors Georgia educators who inspire curiosity and innovation in STEM classrooms. Established in 2019 during GYSTC’s 30th Anniversary, this award celebrates teachers who create engaging learning environments that prepare students for future opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Renamed in 2022 to honor GYSTC co-founder Don Cargill, the award reflects his vision of fostering creativity and independent thinking to shape new industries and possibilities. Recipients receive $500 to enhance their STEM classrooms, continuing Cargill’s legacy of empowering the next generation of STEM students.
GYSTC is a private, not-for-profit educational organization headquartered at Kennesaw State University with regional centers and programs across Georgia. The organization’s mission is to increase interest in and enthusiasm for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) as subjects for serious study for teachers and students in grades K-8.
Read more on the official SCCPSS website
