Chattanooga Schools Begin K–12 Quantum Technology Curriculum

Insider Brief

• TN QuantumWorks has begun a K–12 pilot in 13 Hamilton County, Tennessee schools to introduce quantum concepts and careers as EPB launches its quantum computer.
• The curriculum uses age-specific hands-on activities, from light and patterns in elementary classes to simulations of superposition, entanglement, quantum security and hardware comparisons in later grades.
• Project leaders will use teacher and student feedback to assess classroom fit, engagement and state-standards alignment before expanding the Tennessee workforce-development initiative.

PRESS RELEASE — As EPB launches its quantum computer, the TN QuantumWorks K–12 quantum technology and career awareness curriculum is now being implemented in Hamilton County classrooms. Announced earlier this year, the curriculum includes programs for four age groups: grades K–2, grades 3–5, middle school, and high school. TN QuantumWorks is designed to help build the local workforce needed to support the community’s growing quantum technology initiatives.

Participating teachers completed professional development and received hands-on activity kits to support classroom implementation. Sample activities include elementary students exploring basic quantum concepts through light, patterns and other age-appropriate hands-on activities; middle school students using coins, paired cards and even cereal to model quantum technology, superposition and entanglement; and high school students simulating quantum security, comparing quantum hardware and exploring quantum-related careers.