Newton has become the latest site for DIGITS, a statewide program offered free to middle schools to increase 6th graders’ interest in STEM and knowledge of STEM-related careers. DIGITS pairs volunteer STEM Ambassadors — professionals in STEM-related fields who are trained in the DIGITS program — with classrooms to inspire and motivate students and explain the importance of math and science in their careers.

Through efforts of NewtonSTEM board members Joyce Plotkin (chair of DIGITS), Norma Sullivan (Oak Hill 6th grade math/science teacher), and others, the DIGITS program is launching in all four Newton middle schools. On June 2, Oak Hill hosted a terrific student assembly for the DIGITS launch with a range of exciting speakers:

• State Commissioner of Higher Education Richard Freeman, who is responsible for the STEM Pipeline Fund, polled the students about their interest in math and science and spoke about how so may things kids care about depend on STEM.
• DIGITS Ambassador Jim Toepel described his career in materials science and software, working on the Space Shuttle and then developing video games for Harmonix.
• Tezz Yancey, who stars in the DIGITS music video, brought the video to life with a captivating live performance of singing and dancing to “make digits your business.”
• Superintendent David Fleishman wrapped up the presentation by relating how he uses math in his job and how he consults with scientists when making decisions about snow days!

The Oak Hill 6th graders were transfixed throughout. DIGITS has 11 funding partners and over 40 corporate partners that provide volunteers from the fields of software, telecommunications, biotechnology, medical devices, engineering, and energy. To learn more, visit www.digits.us.com.

Commissioner Richard Freeland	STEM Ambassador Jim Toepel	Musical Performer Tezz Yancey	Superintendent David Fleishman

L to R: Commissioner Richard Freeman, Oak Hill Principal Eva Thompson, Superintendent David Fleishman, STEM Ambassador Jim Toepel, Oak Hill Math/Science Teacher Norma Sullivan, Musical Performer Tezz Yancey, DIGITS Chair Joyce Plotkin.