Sandy, Utah— Beehive Science and Technology Academy, a Sandy-based, tuition-free, public charter school established in 2005, announces the school received Platinum Level STEM School Designation for the 2025/2026 school year by the Utah State Board of Education and the Utah STEM Action Center. Beehive Academy was one of only two schools, K-12, to receive this highest recognition. The current designation is the third time Beehive Science and Technology Academy has received the platinum rating.
Kerrie Upenikes, Beehive Academy STEM Coordinator, said “Being awarded the Platinum STEM designation is a testament to our commitment to innovative, hands-on learning that prepares students for the future. STEM education is vital not only for academic growth, but also for fostering problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking skills that benefit the entire community. This recognition highlights how our school is empowering the next generation of leaders, engineers, scientists, and creators.”
According to the Utah STEM Action Center, the Utah STEM Schools Designation program was developed to define criteria and elements necessary for a school to create a “comprehensive STEM learning environment” for students. The STEM program helps provide schools the opportunity to engage in discussions with faculty and community partners around STEM education with “strong instruction for students to prepare them for college and career readiness.” The designation also serves as an indicator for members of the public who are looking for STEM school experiences in Utah K-12 education.
“Since our founding in 2005, Beehive Academy has been dedicated to providing a high-quality STEM education,” said Hanifi Oguz, Beehive Academy Executive Director. “This third Platinum Level designation is a significant milestone that reflects our continued growth and our enduring commitment to preparing the next generation of STEM leaders and innovators who will contribute to their communities immensely.”
Visit www.beehiveacademy.org. to learn more about Beehive Science and Technology Academy.
