Rhode Island Department of Education Announces Winner of 2026 STEAM Logo Design Contest

Rhode Island Department of Education Announces Winner of 2026 STEAM Logo Design Contest

Published on Thursday, June 11, 2026

WOOD RIVER JUNCTION, R.I. - Today, Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green and the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) announced Kaitlyn Charette, a junior at CHARIHOtech, as the winner of the 2026 STEAM Logo Design Contest. Her logo and slogan will be used on promotional items to elevate the importance of STEAM for the entire month of November across the state.

"We are committed to advancing STEAM education here in Rhode Island, and we're thrilled to see our students actively engaged in this work," said Governor Dan McKee. "Congratulations to Kaitlyn, whose design beautifully illustrates how, through STEAM, students can create, explore, and innovate in ways that will help shape the future."

"By combining creativity with problem-solving, STEAM education helps students develop the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world," said Education Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. "On behalf of RIDE, I want to applaud Kaitlyn for this outstanding achievement and say thank you for helping to showcase the incredible potential of students across Rhode Island."

RIDE received 23 student submissions featuring original logo and slogan designs in April, which kicked off the online voting period. Community members were also invited to cast their votes during the RI STEAM Expo in May. Kaitlyn's design received 139 votes.

"This recognition is a testament to the talent, dedication, and creativity that our students bring to their work every day," said CHARIHOtech Director Gerald Auth. "We are incredibly proud of Kaitlyn for having her design selected as the logo for RI STEAM Month in November. Achievements like this show what is possible when students are encouraged to explore their passions and put their talents into action in meaningful ways."

In addition to Graphic Design III, Kaitlyn's courseload this semester also includes AP U.S. History, AP Psychology, English Honors, Chemistry Honors, and Algebra II Honors. She recently earned a Bronze Medal at the SkillsUSA competition for Ad Design and plans to pursue Graphic Design and Marketing/Business in college.

"Watching students apply their creativity and skills to real-world projects is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching," said CHARIHOtech Graphic Design Teacher Donna Caster. "This achievement reflects not only Kaitlyn's artistic ability, but the overall quality and professionalism that she brings to her work. She represents our program with such pride and excellence. This recognition is extremely well deserved."

The purpose of RI STEAM Month is to celebrate opportunities that schools offer in STEAM areas and highlight the importance of learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.

For more information on RI STEAM Month, please visit here.