FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ExxonMobil Awards Grant to Magnolia School District to Modernize STEM Labs and Support Future Workforce
Magnolia, AR — Magnolia School District has been awarded a $20,000 grant from ExxonMobil to enhance science education at Magnolia High School and better prepare students for high-demand careers in South Arkansas. The grant, titled “Bridging Biology and Brine: Modernizing STEM Labs for the Lithium Workforce,” will bring new lab equipment and hands-on learning experiences to students in grades 9–12.
South Arkansas is emerging as a national leader in lithium production due to resources in the Smackover Formation. As the industry grows, so does the need for workers with skills in environmental monitoring, laboratory analysis, and applied STEM fields.
With support from ExxonMobil, Magnolia High School students will:
Conduct water quality testing and analyze brine chemistry
Study microbial ecosystems connected to environmental science
Use biotechnology tools such as Polymerase Chain Reaction kits and micropipettes
Take part in engineering challenges, including designing filtration systems
These experiences align with Arkansas State Science Standards and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), helping students build both knowledge and practical skills.
The project was a collaborative effort across the district, with contributions from Sonya Russell, Math and Science Curriculum Coordinator; Julie Carter, Magnolia High School STEM Instructional Facilitator; Melissa Rowe, AP & Advanced and Accelerated Biology Teacher; Shelby Cobb, AP Environmental Science & Biology Teacher; and Kelsey Elam, Magnolia Career and Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator.
The grant will also strengthen connections with Southern Arkansas University (SAU), creating more opportunities for students to explore college pathways in engineering, environmental science, and related STEM fields.
“This is about opening doors for our students,” Superintendent John Ward shared. “We want every student to see a future for themselves—whether that’s continuing their education or stepping into a meaningful career right here in South Arkansas.”
Magnolia School District is grateful to ExxonMobil for this investment in students, schools, and the future of the community.
Pictured Above (L to R):
Back Row:
Sheryl Edwards - Southern Arkansas University, Inna Hopkins - Public & Government Advisor, Steven Souter - Magnolia School District Board President, Ryan Daly - Lithium Development Advisor, Matthew McCowan - US Lithium Manager, John D. Ward - Magnolia School District Superintendent, Emily Jester - Magnolia School District School Board Secretary, Mike Waters - Magnolia School District School Board Member, Julie Carter - Magnolia High School STEM Instructional Facilitator, Sonya Russell - Magnolia School District Math & Science Curriculum Coordinator, and Kelsey Elam - Magnolia School District Career & Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator.
Front Row:
Melissa Rowe, AP & Advanced and Accelerated Biology Teacher, and Shelby Cobb, AP Environmental Science & Biology Teacher