2. DHSTS_Dart_Foundation_STEAM_Grant_Narrative

                  DeKalb High School of Technology South
                       Dart Foundation STEAM Grant Narrative
                         Law and Justice Pathway and Welding Pathway

Project Description
DeKalb High School of Technology South is requesting funding from The Dart Foundation to
support a STEAM-related project that will expand hands-on, career-focused learning in the
Law and Justice and Welding pathways. As a career and technical education center, DHST-S
prepares students for high-demand careers by providing authentic learning experiences that
connect classroom instruction to real-world industry skills. This project will allow students to
apply science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics through practical, industry-
aligned activities that strengthen problem-solving, technical skill development, communication,
and career readiness.
The Law and Justice pathway will use grant funds to create an outdoor crime scene
investigation classroom. This space will allow students to conduct realistic crime scene
simulations, practice evidence collection, complete scene measurements and sketches,
analyze patterns, document findings, and prepare investigative reports. The project connects
directly to STEAM by incorporating forensic science, digital photography, mapping,
measurement, data analysis, communication, and critical thinking. Students will also gain
exposure to skills aligned with the National Basic Crime Scene Investigator Certification for
secondary and post-secondary students, helping them build a stronger foundation for careers
in law enforcement, forensic science, public safety, and criminal investigations.
The Welding pathway also strongly supports the goals of a STEAM-focused grant because
welding is an applied STEM field that requires precision, design, engineering, mathematics,
and technical problem-solving. Students use measurements, angles, blueprints, materials
science, heat transfer, and fabrication techniques to design and create functional products.
Grant funds will support equipment, tools, safety materials, and instructional supplies that allow
students to strengthen their welding and fabrication skills while completing hands-on projects.
These experiences prepare students for industry certifications, employment opportunities,
apprenticeships, and post-secondary technical programs.
Together, the Law and Justice and Welding pathways provide students with meaningful
STEAM experiences that are both academic and career-focused. The outdoor crime scene
classroom will serve as a small capital improvement that creates a dedicated instructional
environment for investigations, while the welding equipment and supplies will expand students’
ability to design, build, and fabricate real-world projects. Both pathways require students to
think critically, work collaboratively, use industry tools, follow safety procedures, and apply
technical knowledge in a hands-on setting.
This $50,000 investment will directly support student learning by funding equipment, materials,
and instructional spaces that are sustainable and aligned with The Dart Foundation’s
preference for small capital improvements, equipment purchases, and programming. The
project will increase student engagement, strengthen career readiness, and provide students
with access to high-quality STEAM learning experiences that reflect real industry expectations.


                    DeKalb High School of Technology South | Dart Foundation STEAM Grant Request