UT, Knoxville leading new effort focused on nuclear awareness for K-2 youngsters
By introducing nuclear principles to K-2 classrooms, the program seeks to inspire a new generation of students equipped to address tomorrow’s energy challenges.
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s (UTK) Tickle College of Engineering is part of a groundbreaking statewide initiative to introduce nuclear energy concepts to students in kindergarten through second grade.
Beginning with the 2025-26 school year, Tennessee teachers will be able to bring the groundbreaking “Powering Our Town” nuclear energy curriculum into classrooms — the first program of its kind in the United States for K-2 students. More than 280 elementary teachers statewide will be trained to deliver age-appropriate, inquiry-based lessons that introduce young learners to key energy concepts. The initiative aims to demystify nuclear power, inspire curiosity about science and technology, and establish a foundation for future careers in clean energy.
Faculty members in the college’s Department of Nuclear Engineering 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.
“This innovative K-2 nuclear educational program builds on Tennessee’s energy leadership by inspiring young minds to explore science and clean energy concepts,” said Wes Hines, Chancellor’s Professor Emeritus and former head of the department. “We’re sparking curiosity and planting the seeds for a future generation of problem-solvers who can help create a safer, cleaner world.”
Educators and representatives from the department recently participated in a workshop to build foundational knowledge and engage with industry leaders who shared their expertise. The afternoon focused on the engineering design process and quality project-based learning. Educators explored the “Powering Our Town” curriculum, in which students design a model town that uses nuclear energy to power homes, schools and businesses. The program 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,” said Hines. “The lessons and exposure to nuclear industry experts provided meaningful and impactful experiences for the attendees and our team.”
UTK received a state grant to launch the initiative. In addition to providing science instruction, the program represents a strategic investment in Tennessee’s future energy workforce. By introducing nuclear principles to K-2 classrooms, it seeks to inspire a new generation of students equipped to address tomorrow’s energy challenges.
The five-year program will host three workshops across the state over each of the next four summers. Additional information about the training is available on the TSIN website.
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