STEM — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — education has been the heartbeat of Harmony Public Schools since its inception in 1999. Over the years, Harmony has evolved from a network of schools hosting local science fairs into a national and international leader in STEM education. For more than 18 years, one educator has witnessed the evolution of STEM at Harmony — how it started, how it has grown and how it continues to shape the future of education.

The early days: Science fairs and the seeds of innovation

In the early years, Harmony Public Schools’ commitment to STEM was evident through schoolwide science fairs. These small but impactful events gave students opportunities to explore scientific concepts, develop critical thinking skills and showcase innovative ideas. As interest and participation grew, the fairs expanded to regional, national and international levels. Harmony was not content with participation alone; the network set out to create its own legacy.

ISWEEEP: The pinnacle of STEM competitions

One of Harmony Public Schools’ most significant contributions to STEM education was the creation of the International Sustainable World Energy, Engineering, and Environment Project Olympiad, known as ISWEEEP. For more than a decade, ISWEEEP served as a global platform where talented young scientists from around the world presented groundbreaking projects. The competition became a beacon of excellence, drawing participants from dozens of countries and positioning Harmony as a trailblazer in STEM education.

Robotics: A passion for Harmony

Robotics has long been a crucial part of Harmony Public Schools’ STEM initiatives. From elementary through high school, students have embraced robotics as a way to apply engineering and programming skills in real-world competitions. The VEX Robotics program has been a longstanding achievement, but in recent years, the rise of drones has captured student enthusiasm. Schools across Harmony are forming drone competition teams, and even elementary students—such as those at Harmony School of Innovation-Euless—are outperforming high school teams with their passion and dedication to drone technology. Additionally, Harmony’s Innovation Underwater Robotics Program has gained recognition for its competitive excellence, encouraging students to explore robotics in challenging underwater environments.

The Solar Car Project: Driving innovation forward

And let’s not forget the incredible Solar Car Project, a passion that has driven Harmony students to innovate for many years. This initiative challenges students to design and build solar electric cars powered by alternative energy systems, serving as a strong example of Harmony’s leadership in sustainable energy education. Year after year, students win races with their solar-powered vehicles, demonstrating their ability to integrate cutting-edge technology with eco-friendly solutions. The project does more than teach students how to build cars; it expands their understanding of electric vehicles powered by renewable energy sources. Harmony is helping shape the next generation of engineers and environmental stewards who will drive the future of sustainable transportation.

Project-based learning: Learning by doing

Beyond competitions, Harmony Public Schools embraced project-based learning as a core instructional strategy. STEM SOS, the network’s rigorous and interdisciplinary project-based learning model, transformed traditional teaching into a student-centered, inquiry-driven approach. Through hands-on projects, students not only mastered academic content but also developed problem-solving, collaboration and innovation skills that prepared them for real-world challenges. Project Lead the Way, a nationally recognized career and technical education program, has been instrumental in providing advanced STEM coursework at the high school level while also offering innovative opportunities for middle and elementary students.

The technological evolution in Harmony classrooms

Technology has played a crucial role in the growth of STEM education at Harmony Public Schools. In the early years, classrooms were equipped with cabled mice and large desktop computers. Today, every student has access to a one-to-one Chromebook for learning. Teachers have adapted alongside these advancements, transitioning from overhead projectors to document cameras, interactive smartboards and AI-integrated laptops. Harmony has also developed proprietary data management systems and educational software to ensure that technology enhances learning at every level.

A significant milestone in Harmony’s STEM journey came with the award of the Race to the Top grant—a $32 million boost that dramatically expanded access to technology. This funding helped put Chromebooks in every classroom, offering students the tools to succeed in a digital world. Additional support came through the $8 million Education Innovation and Research grant, which elevated STEM programming even further. With this backing, Harmony continues to lead nationally, providing students with more than textbooks—offering access to real innovation and the skills to improve and inspire.

Leadership and vision: Key figures in Harmony’s STEM growth

No success story is complete without recognizing the visionaries who made it possible. CEO Fatih Ay has been instrumental in championing STEM initiatives and ensuring their integration across Harmony Public Schools. The arrival of Levent Sakar at the central office marked another turning point, bringing fresh ideas and strategies that further elevated the network’s STEM programs. Meanwhile, Chief Academic Officer Andy Ayyildiz has worked tirelessly to refine and expand the STEM curriculum, helping ensure that Harmony remains at the forefront of educational innovation.

The legacy of Dr. Ozgur Ozer also stands as a cornerstone of Harmony’s success. His passion for STEM education laid the foundation for many of the programs in place today. Though he is no longer with the organization, his contributions continue to inspire students and educators. His vision of making Harmony a global leader in STEM education is a reality the network strives to uphold every day.

Embracing the future: AI, CTE and industry-based certifications

As STEM education continues to evolve, so does Harmony Public Schools. The recent surge in artificial intelligence is reshaping teaching and learning, prompting the integration of AI-focused coursework into the curriculum. In addition, Harmony’s career and technical education programs, along with industry-based certifications, are preparing students for high-demand STEM careers. These initiatives ensure that graduates are not only college-ready but also career-ready, equipped with the skills needed to thrive in today’s workforce.

A legacy that continues to grow

Harmony Public Schools has never been one to rest on its laurels. From humble beginnings with schoolwide science fairs to hosting world-class STEM competitions, leading project-based learning initiatives, pioneering robotics and drone programs, embracing emerging technologies and advancing the Solar Car Project, Harmony continues to set the standard for excellence in STEM education.

With support from the Race to the Top and Education Innovation and Research grants paving the way for an even brighter future, Harmony is not simply participating in STEM education—it is leading it. As the network looks ahead, one thing remains certain: STEM at Harmony is more than an educational initiative. It is a movement, a legacy and a promise to students to continue innovating, inspiring and leading in STEM education.

Perhaps the next great scientist, engineer or artificial intelligence pioneer is already sitting in a Harmony classroom, ready to change the world. Or maybe that student is preparing to create something extraordinary with a one-to-one Chromebook—and the tools to dream big.

 

Written by: Dr. Ilker Fidan