TDS Telecom awards $10,000 STEM grant to Mooresville Graded School District

TDS to help outfit Mooresville High School’s new SparkLab with key tech components

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Jan. 6, 2026) — TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS®) is proud to announce Mooresville High School (MHS), part of the Mooresville Graded School District in North Carolina, as the recipient of its $10,000 TDS STEM-Ed grant.

One of TDS’ core values is investing in the future of its communities. This grant will help MHS launch its new SparkLab—a cutting-edge learning space from SparkNC, designed to prepare students for careers in tech.

SparkLabs are more than high-tech classrooms—they are collaborative learning spaces designed to spark curiosity and prepare students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). School districts across North Carolina have built these creativity hubs for students to use hands-on activities to explore fields and topics like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, coding, game and app development, robotics, and digital media.

This lab, which is expected to open at MHS in spring 2026, aligns with the school district’s strategic priority of Maximizing Opportunity and Achievement—ensuring students graduate ready for modern, high-wage careers.

“We are so grateful to TDS for selecting us for this grant,” said Tracey Waid, secondary curriculum and instruction coordinator at Mooresville Graded School District. “We think this will truly be life-changing for our students and our community.”

The TDS STEM-Ed grant will fund essential tech components for the lab, including:

  • A high-performance workstation for AI, game design, and cybersecurity projects.
  • A collaborative display to enable shared coding, media design, and group learning experiences.
  • Networking upgrades for secure, high-bandwidth connectivity.
  • Audio-visual (AV) equipment to support hybrid learning with other SparkLabs across the state.
  • Robotics and maker-tech kits for hands-on engineering and automation projects.
  • Tech accessories including charging stations, mounts, and peripherals to keep the lab safe, organized, and accessible.

“TDS believes in helping open doors for young people in our community,” said TDS Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs Drew Petersen. “By supporting MHS’ new SparkLab, we’re investing in the skills and curiosity that will power Mooresville High School’s STEM education for years to come.”

TDS provides high-speed internet, TDS TV+ entertainment, and reliable phone and mobile services in Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, and Mooresville. Learn more at HelloTDS.com.

Media Contact: Garrett Seymour | Senior Brand Journalist | TDS Telecom | 608-664-5529 | garrett.seymour@tdstelecom.com

TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS Telecom/TDS®) delivers high-speed internet, TV entertainment, and phone services to a mix of small to mid-sized urban, suburban and rural communities throughout the U.S. With 1.1 million connections, TDS’ mission is to create a better world through its communications services. Powered by fiber-optics and new industry-leading technologies, TDS delivers up to 8 Gigabit internet speeds and offers internet-protocol based TV entertainment solutions along with traditional phone services. TDS also offers businesses VoIP advanced communications solutions, dedicated internet service, and data networking services. Visit tdstelecom.com.

TDS Telecom, headquartered in Madison, Wis., employs 3,400 people and is a subsidiary of Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. [NYSE: TDS]. Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. (TDS) provides broadband, video and voice through its TDS Telecom business. Its Array business leases and offers tower space to third-party carriers. Founded in 1969, TDS is headquartered in Chicago. Visit tdsinc.com.

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