CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Classroom Central is launching its newest in-store, free supply program, Innovation Station on Feb. 18, 2025 – a program designed to provide local educators with increased access to STEM-focused materials to spark creativity and increase critical thinking and engagement for students in the classroom.
Innovation Station is an interactive space designated within the Classroom Central flagship Free Store where eligible educators can explore and collect materials that complement 30 challenge cards, all sourced and developed through local partnerships and grants provided by Duke Energy | Piedmont Natural Gas and other local corporations.
The accompanying challenge cards empower educators to incorporate these hands-on learning activities in the classroom – all without the added burden of additional lesson plan development or the purchase of necessary materials.
“We know that students learn best when they can explore, create, and experiment – but access to materials that allow this type of learning can be an additional burden on teachers because the materials may not be your typical “school supply item,” said Karen Calder, Executive Director of Classroom Central. “Innovation Station is another example of Classroom Central not only breaking down barriers to new opportunities for learning but recognizing that the way students learn is changing and we have to adapt our learning materials to best serve the next generation of leaders.”
About Classroom Central
Classroom Central fosters equity in education by providing teachers and students with the free resources they need to succeed. Serving six school districts across the greater Charlotte region, Classroom Central provides essential tools that support learning and empower teachers to create positive educational experiences. Since its founding in 2002, Classroom Central has distributed over $100 million in free supplies, impacting thousands of students and educators annually.
By addressing the critical gaps in educational equity, Classroom Central helps to create brighter futures for all students in the community.
For more information, visit www.classroomcentral.org.
