Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS), the Loudoun Education Foundation (LEF), and Amazon celebrated bringing hands-on STEM enrichment to students with a ribbon cutting of a new Think Big Corner at Potowmack Elementary School on April 29. Amazon worked closely with the LCPS Science Department to select four elementary schools to receive an Amazon Think Big Corner. In addition to Potowmack, the other elementary schools are Forest Grove, Frederick Douglass, and Guilford. Amazon also launched its newest Think Big Mobile Van, which will be traveling all over Northern Virginia to engage students in STEM learning.
“Partnerships like this with Amazon and the Loudoun Education Foundation are powerful examples of what’s possible when industry and education come together with a shared vision for student success,” said Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence. “These Think Big Corners will spark curiosity, build confidence, and open doors to future careers in STEM fields for our younger learners. We are grateful for Amazon’s continued commitment to our students’ futures and the incredible support of our community partners.”
The “corners” are a smaller version of the Amazon Think Big Space that was launched at Simpson Middle School in Leesburg in 2022. That space continues to serve as a computer science training hub for teachers throughout the region, as well as a creative learning environment for LCPS students of all grade levels.
"These Think Big Corners and mobile van represent our collective commitment to nurturing STEM education and innovation in Loudoun County and beyond," said Sarah Georgiades, Head of Community Engagement, Amazon Data Centers. "By joining forces with LCPS and LEF, we're creating spaces that empower educators and inspire students, ensuring that all young learners have access to cutting-edge tools and hands-on experiences that will shape the innovators of tomorrow."
These minilabs come equipped with special supplies and equipment, such as 3D printers, to foster hands-on science, technology, engineering and math learning and creativity among LCPS students. As part of the project, Amazon has committed to hosting in-person training sessions for teachers in the workspaces, as well as creative workshops for students.