Toyota USA Foundation announced a $5.8 million grant to Lee County and Pontotoc City Schools in Mississippi, aimed at revolutionizing STEM education and fostering workforce readiness. Part of Toyota’s Driving Possibilities program, the funds align with the company’s goal to support educational and community engagement nationwide.
“We believe all students deserve equal access to opportunities and a pathway to high-growth careers, no matter their background,” stated Ana Meade, vice president of social innovation at Toyota. “Through Driving Possibilities, we aim to create limitless possibilities for all in our work with communities to address barriers so that everyone can participate in the quality STEM jobs of the future.”
The program in Mississippi collaborates with the CREATE Foundation and the University of Mississippi to implement a national approach to education that integrates STEM into daily learning and professional development for educators. This effort is designed not only to improve educational outcomes but also to meet the pressing need for skilled STEM professionals.
“The tailored plan will help enhance educational opportunities from PreK through 12th grade while integrating STEM into the everyday life of our students and teachers,” said Aaron Foster, plant vice president of Toyota Mississippi.
Lee County Schools will focus on embedding STEM programming at the middle school level and developing a targeted professional development program for educators. Pontotoc City Schools will introduce a Newcomer Program to provide resources for English-language learners, including translation services.
Mississippi Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann praised Toyota’s commitment: “Toyota is leading the way on helping us create Mississippi’s next generation workforce. When industry and education work together, the possibilities for our children and our economy are endless.”
This investment in Mississippi’s educational landscape is part of a broader effort by the Toyota USA Foundation, which has committed nearly $72 million across various locations to support community and educational advancements.