Iowa Public Television Helps Students Find STEM Careers

In order to help students explore STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers, Iowa Public Television (IPTV) is providing a series of no cost ICN sessions related to STEM careers. During these sessions, students will have the opportunity to meet various professionals in Iowa who are working in STEM careers. Students also have an opportunity to see the professionals on the job as they will be viewing a short video produced by IPTV during the session.

Educators know that in 7th and 8th grade, Iowa schools are required to offer career education including exploration of career opportunities. This process is designed to help students complete a high school and career development plan. These sessions are a great resource for schools needing to help students with the critical work in planning their futures. For some sessions, free copies of the 4 disc DVD set, Explore More, will be offered. Sign up today and please share this information with your colleagues!

For more information, go to http://www.iptv.org/iowa_database/event-detail.cfm?ID=9441 or contact the following:

LaShell Staley
Project Manager, Education
Iowa Public Television
6450 Corporate Drive
Johnston,IA 50131
800-532-1290
515-242-3144
lashell@iptv.org

Information on Bike to School Day

Larry Jablonski, a retired Urbandale principal, is a supporter for Bike to Work Week, an awareness event that advocates bicycling as a viable mode of transportation. One of the week's events is Bike to School Day in which students and school staff are encouraged to bike to school. Last year, Summit Middle School in Johnston had the most participation with over 800 students who rode their bikes to school on the designated day. This year's Bike to Work Week is scheduled for the week of May 9-15, 2009. Click here for more information on how your school can host its own Bike to School Day during Bike to Work Week.

Questions can be directed to Larry Jablonski, 515-249-5888 or Tina Mowry Hadden, 515-238-0609.

Scott McCleod Video from February Heartland Administrators Association Meeting

Scott McCleod, Professor in the Iowa State University Educational Leadership Program, recently presented to the Heartland-area superintendents at their monthly meeting. He provided information on our global achievement gap and the challenges facing schools to teach 21st century skills. Thanks to Gordon Dahlby of West Des Moines Schools, a video of the presentation is now available on Scott's blog at http://www.dangerouslyirrelevant.org/.