We had a great ignite session focused on helping educators in Belize build relationships with industry partners and subject matter experts.
Ignite
Interest Inspire Action
Give Hope to Belizean Students
When: July 15
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 pm MT
Joselyn / Belmopan Methodist High School / 10th Grade / Belmopan
Deetra / Belmopan Methodist High School / Grade 12 / Belmopan
Hadi / 10th grade / Edward P. Yorke High School / Belize City
We listened to the above students and discuss what it will take to help them become the future they seek. Several Belizean teachers joined us so that they too will learn how to develop meaningful relationships with subject matter experts, industries, and a network of caring adults beyond just a parent and teacher.
Some amazing collaborations have begun as a result of this session.
Please read below what rural Colorado teacher Craig Parker said:
I was blown away by the students today. I think we are getting so close to cracking the nut on opportunities for kids who are not surrounded by unlimited resources. Lone Star only had 5 graduates this year (16 next year!). Of those 5 graduates, 4 of them are on a path directed by industry partners they met through the efforts of our school. Those 4 students are all getting higher education paid for and a job when they are finished. This is outstanding compared to 3 or 4 years ago when our students had the same pattern of getting menial jobs out of high school, going to college on student loans with no plan, and/or going to college only to drop out. We are starting to see formulas develop, and we are starting to identify the characteristics of industry partners who really want to help the students.
Great insight can also be gained from Belizean business and industry leaders. This is what one Belizean business person had to say after a Belizean teacher asked “What do our students need to know to thrive in the future of your industry?”
First, you must have a set plan. I ask myself “What type of business do I want to venture into?” How am I going to operate this business? Which location should I choose for my business? How will I be successful? All of this was a part of my plan before I started the business. In business, I learnt that you must make your business for the people. You must make people feel comfortable and welcomed; therefore, public relation is key to your business. You must also be loyal to your customers. Furthermore, you must evaluate yourself and your business and always work on your weaknesses. Next, you must never be afraid to invest. I know investment is a major risk but as a business person, you must never be afraid to take risks. One of my main strategies in my business is making the items that are essential very reasonable other than the wants. In this way, I can meet my customers’ demands and satisfaction. There will be challenges, competition but never give up. Do not have a grudge over any business, stay focused, remain positive and keep on going.
Susan Morrice left us with the ultimate challenge: DREAM BIG! As we implement the next steps we hope industry, business, and community leaders will work with students and teachers to introduce them to infinite opportunities that help them DREAM BIG.
Debra Wilcox (The 3D Printing Store) advises students to Be agile! Think in 3D! She also is an innovator in a concept called satellite interns.
Kate Migliazzo (ChalkCast) advised students to consider the People Aspect, Soft Skills, and Learning from Failure as they pursue their dreams.
Belizean educational leaders Ms. Pascacsio and Ms. Ellis told us about advancements and challenges at their schools.
Mr. Noralez has a vision for Belizean schools that involves relationships with industries and focusing on marketability. His entrepreneurial spirit has led to award winning solutions for his students.
Belizean industry leader Ms. Andrea spoke to teachers, students, and industry leaders about what students can do to prepare for their future. Special thanks to Aver for donating two 520+ systems and to ZOOM for the free ZOOM Pro trial.Building Ships
Partnerships, Friendships,
Mentorships, Internships,
Relationships, Sponsorships How can industry partners be connected to K-12 learning in meaningful and sustainable ways?
Students who thrive in joyful learning do this with the help of their teachers, other students, industry partners, and a community that fosters their love for life and learning. They are the kind of students that want other students to experience the miracle of learning and the joy of discovery and innovation. One way to honor them is to make sure every child has the same opportunity.
“There are all kinds of challenges these days that people are trying to solve, and we’re done with the easy problems. We’re entering grand challenges that aren’t going to be solved by a person or company, they’re going to be solved by a community.”
– Scott Sieke, a graduate student at CU Boulder who works with Science DiscoveryPresenters: Tom Kirk (Rural Colorado Educator) Susan Morrice (Belize Natural Energy) Debra Wilcox (The 3D Printing Store) Sue Linch (Lockheed Martin) Kate Migliazzo (ChalkCast) Gregg Cannady (STEM) Sponsored by One Voice 4 Change
Gregg Cannady D.M.A. Collaboration and Concept Development|STEM School Highlands Ranch