TSA program builds STEM, leadership skills

South Western school district’s Technology Student Association (TSA) program gives middle and high school students the opportunity to compete in STEM-related (science, technology, engineering and math) contests, building academic, business and leadership skills. According to an article in York Dispatch, categories include everything from 3D animation and engineering design to public speaking and music production. Gifted support teacher Melissa Wilson and technology and engineering teacher Jana Bonds advise the students. South Western’s TSA program is one of about 2,000 in the country from 45 states. Students compete against other schools at the county, regional, state and national levels. Over the last few years, the South Western program has seen growth. In 2017, they had dozens of high-ranking finishes in 18 categories.