Ten Gary students were honored at the 5th annual Gary STEM Signing Day, where they received bonuses valued at $750 for their academic achievements in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The students were selected based on their involvement in STEM programs throughout their middle and high school years. West Side Leadership Academy senior Rayven Anderson, who taught herself coding at age 10, expressed gratitude for the support she received from her school community. Antwan Jordan of West Side Leadership Academy, who plans to study mechanical engineering at Louisiana State University, emphasized that success is not about rankings but about personal growth. The students were encouraged by Gary Mayor Eddie Melton to remember their roots and contribute to the city’s development in the future.