Press Release
Westhoff Elementary School celebrated the opening of a new science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) Center on February 27.
This cutting-edge learning space is provided through a partnership between Devon Energy, Repsol and the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation. The STEM Center supports the organization’s mission to ignite curiosity and provide students with hands-on learning opportunities to enhance STEM education.
Dustin Kenne, district coordinator at Westhoff Independent School District, said he is thankful for the opportunities this space will provide students.
“This STEM Center is a game-changer for our school,” said Kenne. “It’s more than just a classroom—it’s a gateway to endless possibilities. Our students have the potential to achieve anything, and we’re grateful for corporate partners like Devon and Repsol who share that belief and invest in their future.”
Ripken Foundation STEM Centers feature innovative learning equipment like 3D printers, Snap Circuits, Indi Cars and Bee-Bots. These tools not only introduce STEM concepts but also enhance students’ critical thinking skills and imagination.
Steve Salem, president and CEO of the Ripken Foundation, said the interactive environment can help spark students’ interest in STEM.
“This STEM Center shows that learning can be exciting, sparking curiosity through engaged learning,” said Salem. “We are honored to provide more learning opportunities for the students at Westhoff Elementary.”
The Ripken Foundation provides training, a curriculum guidebook and activity kits to enhance the tools in the STEM Centers. The organization has opened more than 660 STEM Centers nationwide.
About the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation
The Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation helps to strengthen America’s most underserved and distressed communities by supporting and advocating for children, building Youth Development Parks and STEM Centers, partnering with law enforcement and youth-service agencies, and addressing community needs through its national program initiatives. In 2024, the Ripken Foundation impacted more than 1.4 million youth nationwide through its Youth Development Parks and youth development programs.
Since 2010, the Ripken Foundation has more than 120 completed parks across the country in 27 states and Washington, D.C. In addition, since 2016, the Ripken Foundation has installed more than 660 STEM Centers in 25 states. For more information, visit www.RipkenFoundation.org.
