FSU-PC’s ASCENT program receives grant to support K-12 technology clubs

PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Technology is rapidly growing and plays an important role in everyday life, which is why FSU-PC’s ASCENT program works to grow student knowledge of science, career, and new technologies.

“Every job needs it now, and there is no way you can get by in life without having technical knowledge,” said Brianne Biddle, Assistant Director of ASCENT.

A $126,000 grant from the St. Joe Community Foundation will fund camps and K-12 Integrated Technology clubs (ITC) in Bay and Walton counties.

“We take this funding, and we help to support those clubs with equipment,” said Biddle, “because that’s kind of the biggest barrier to technology education is having the equipment, because everything is so outdated so quickly.”

That includes clubs like the esports program at Rosenwald High School.

“They become empowered in learning that these skills they have in playing video games, or playing on computers, and messing around with them have value,” said Carly Karas, a teacher and ITC at Rosenwald High School. " Then we take that, and we funnel that confidence into new skills."

For students, these programs help them find their passion for technology career fields like computer science.

“They mean a lot; it’s just seeing that people share the same connection that they have with computer science as I do,” said Tai Chin, a student at the Collegiate School. “It’s just getting others involved and seeing how the light sparks behind their eyes, and just seeing like it’s something they want to do too.”

The programs are building a strong foundation for students’ futures.

“They need to be able to navigate this kind of world. That is where these ITCs shine,” Karas said.

ASCENT also works to empower the workforce with adult programs through its Office of Professional Engagement and Learning program.

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