Pembroke Pines Girl Scout's Gold Award Project Revitalizes STEM Interest in Local School
Elise Schaub's Gold Award project not only saved her middle school from closure but also ignited a lasting interest in STEM among students, showcasing the power of youth-led initiatives in education.
Elise Schaub, a Pembroke Pines resident and Girl Scout, has been awarded the prestigious Gold Award for her project 'Building the Future Through STEM,' which significantly impacted Pines Middle School by reversing declining enrollment and fostering a new enthusiasm for STEM education. The project's success underscores the critical role of early STEM engagement in addressing the gender disparity in science and engineering fields, as highlighted by the State of the Florida Girl report.
Schaub's initiative involved the creation of a robotics team that participated in the First Lego League (FLL), where students explored real-world problems through technology, such as underwater drone technology for deep-sea exploration. Beyond competition, Schaub organized workshops to introduce students to various STEM careers, from biomedical research to nuclear engineering, thereby expanding their horizons and aspirations.
The ripple effects of Schaub's project are evident in the establishment of additional STEM programs like VEX Robotics and Sea Perch at Pines Middle School. These programs continue to thrive, offering students invaluable hands-on learning experiences and exposure to high-demand career paths. Schaub's efforts have not only enriched the school's academic environment but also ensured its survival and potential evolution into a Collegiate Academy.
Lisa Johnson, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, praised Schaub and other Gold Award recipients for their innovative and impactful projects. 'These young ladies are tackling some of today's most pressing challenges with compassion, innovation, and leadership,' Johnson remarked. Schaub was one of 27 young women in the region to receive the Gold Award at the 2025 Annual Gold Award Ceremony, supported by sponsors including Amazon, Fiserv, and Florida Power & Light.
The transformative impact of Schaub's project on Pines Middle School and its students exemplifies the potential of youth-led initiatives to effect meaningful change in education and community development. By addressing the critical need for early STEM engagement, Schaub has not only contributed to her school's revival but also inspired a new generation of students to pursue careers in science and technology.