Contact: Maridith Geuder
An innovative five-year workforce education initiative developed at Mississippi State in partnership with state and regional industries will be showcased Dec. 9 on campus.
Titled "Education and Industry Forum 2002," the 9 a.m.-1:45 p.m. public program in the university's new Hunter Henry Center will feature presentations by educators, economic developers and industrial representatives involved in a recently concluded $1.3 million National Science Foundation-funded project. While the event is free and open to all, advance registration is requested.
The joint effort by MSU's Center for Science, Mathematics and Technology and Meridian-based Peavey Electronics was launched in 1996 to help students better prepare to enter the industrial workplace. Known as "Learn to Work," the five-year project focused on the critical link between industrial needs and educational applications.
Center director Sandra H. Harpole said "Learn to Work," which has expanded to include other industries, is a model for integrating workplace applications and skills into the junior-high and high school curriculum. Participating teachers from communities in Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, and Texas went on to serve as school liaisons with more than 40 companies in their respective areas.
"Over the past five years, we have placed more than 130 teachers in industrial settings to learn first-hand the kinds of technical skills required by 21st century industries," said Harpole, a physics professor. "These educators have shared their experiences in classrooms around the nation and developed new curriculum models to provide real-world connections for their students."
In addition to time spent at community industries, some teachers also attended three-week summer sessions at the Mercedes-Benz automotive production facility in Vance, Ala.
Harpole said next month's campus gathering also will include the release of a manual detailing ideas and activities that have proven successful in classrooms. In addition to being made available for all in attendance, the guidebook and accompanying compact disk will be mailed to all Mississippi high school science departments. Copies also may be obtained upon request.
During the half-day program, industry and teacher representatives will share their perspectives on the project. The Learn to Work leadership team also will be recognized.
Program presenters and topics include:
--Jere Hess, a former Peavey official who now is executive director of the Stone County Economic Development Partnership, "Importance of Education-Industry Partnerships for Economic Development."
--Larry E. Crane, director of workforce training and development, and James Ivy, supervisor of training, both at Northrop Grumman Ship Systems of Pascagoula, "Benefits of Industry-Education Partnerships."
--Faye Kinard, science teacher at West Lauderdale High School, and Peggy Webb, technology instructor for Choctaw Tribal Schools, "Making Connections Between the Workplace and the Classroom."
A panel discussion and audience question-and-answer session will conclude the activities.
To complete advance registration or obtain addition information about the Dec. 9 program, telephone Debbie Weeks at (662) 325-2922.