The University of Tennessee’s Department of Nuclear Engineering is part of a groundbreaking statewide initiative to help introduce nuclear energy concepts to kindergarten through second grade classrooms.
Tickle College of Engineering Nuclear faculty members worked in collaboration with the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network (TSIN), the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, North American Young Generation in Nuclear, and leading energy advocates to launch the five-year program, which supports Governor Bill Lee’s vision to position Tennessee as the nation’s leader in nuclear innovation and workforce readiness.
More than 280 elementary teachers from across the state will be trained to deliver age-appropriate, inquiry-based energy education that demystifies nuclear power and lays the foundation for future interest in clean energy careers. The TSIN “Powering our Town” K-2 nuclear energy curriculum is the first of its kind in the United States focused on early learners.
Educators recently participated in a “Nuclear Energy 101” workshop to build foundational knowledge and engage with industry leaders who shared their expertise. The afternoon focused on the Engineering Design Process (EDP) and quality Project-Based Learning (PBL). Educators explored the “Powering Our Town” PBL, driven by the question, “How can we design a model town that uses nuclear energy to power homes, schools, and businesses?” The project spans 11 lessons and integrates multiple Tennessee Academic Standards.
“We reached out and connected with TSIN because we knew they could help us develop nuclear energy curriculum and training for educators across the state of Tennessee,” NE Chancellor’s Professor Emeritus Wes Hines said. “We had no idea the 11 lessons and exposure to nuclear industry experts would provide such meaningful and impactful experience for the attendees and our team.”
Beyond the science instruction, the nuclear energy classroom initiative is a strategic investment in Tennessee’s future energy workforce. By introducing the principles to K-2 classrooms, the program hopes to build a long-term pipeline of students who will be prepared to solve future energy challenges.
Contact
Rhiannon Potkey (rpotkey@utk.edu)