The theme of music for Education’s Business represents the purpose of the show, successful positive actions in K-12 education that often go unnoticed. Proudly, the opening and closing sounds of the show have roots in the band room at Elk Rapids High School, where students, parents and teachers found ways to keep the jazz band alive during trying budgetary times in the district.
Hans Van Sumeren, Director of the Great Lakes Water Studies Institute, Northwestern Michigan College, joins host, Karl Klimek, to discuss underwater robotics initiatives and in advancing skills and education in the world's water resources. The Great Lakes Water Studies Institute is now offering a new Associate degree in Fresh Water Studies, and a BS Degree in Freshwater Science and Sustainability.
Recorded in the heart of Kalkaska High School’s “Mission Control,” Karl interviews Earth Science teacher Andy Urquhart as they discuss the impact of serious projects that yield serious learning. Lighting the fire of technical challenges related to high altitude rocketry and the dangers inherent in kite surfing, Andy reveals how the students take the lead when they are excited about their classroom activities. To think that fifteen year-old students received airspace clearance from the FAA! The students said, “Let’s go higher!”…and that they did!
Making learning authentic is a primary mission of great K-12 educators. Orion’s Quest is a Michigan based non-profit that has been collaborating with prominent space contractors and entities so that actual research from the International Space Station is integrated into classrooms around our state and the nation. In this segment, Karl Klimek introduces Pete Lawrie, the executive director of Orion’s Quest. Companies and organizations that partner with this unique STEM organization are highlighted, demonstrating the power of partnerships that are alive and well in our schools.
When high school students are empowered and held accountable for their actions, we very often see amazing, positive results! Richard Eberly, technology teacher at New Buffalo High School, is an exemplary educator that thrives on placing the leadership and directional actions in the hands of his students. The past two years have been monumental in their expansion of the additive manufacturing equipment and projects in their school. Another classroom worth emulating, his students have developed a premier scientific community on their own!
"Young Michigan Talent" is one of the hottest topics throughout this entire state. We often hear about the need to develop and retain this young talent in ways ensuring Michigan’s economy and global leadership is rock solid. Ben Wittbrodt recently graduated with a Master’s Degree in Materials Science at Michigan Technological University. A 3D printing entrepreneur, Ben represents the future of our state in so many ways. Assisting the Square One Education Network’s additive manufacturing initiative for K-12 schools, he enlightens us all on the excitement of this emerging technology.
Great attention is focused on the importance of success in the Detroit Public Schools. Renaissance High School biology teacher Kerry Williams wrestles with large class sizes and a shortage of basic resources for her learning-hungry students. However, recent grants and support from generous companies such as the Bosch Foundation have enabled her to develop amazing projects that bring a new reality to her classroom. You will enjoy her infectious enthusiasm and references to her remarkable students. Aquaponics at Renaissance High School? Really?
Surprisingly, the small community of Stockbridge, Michigan, is becoming internationally known for their work in underwater robotics. Heritage Elementary teacher Josh Nichols is one of the core professionals bringing that deserved notoriety to this small, rural school district. Josh joins Karl and shares his thoughts on the significance of project-based learning and the huge value that business partners have played in their remarkable success. The students aren’t just coming to school, they are participating in missions.
As is tradition with new programs on the Michigan Business Network, host Karl Klimek turns to the other side of the microphone and interviews Chris Holman. The significance of high-quality education is critical to the future of Michigan. Chris reflects on important people in is educational journey and sets the stage for this new, positive education program, celebrating and unveiling the great efforts happening throughout Michigan's K-12 schools.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education is alive and well in the southwest corner of Michigan. Science consultant Ebiri Nguba joins Karl Klimek and brings his insights, focal points and career activities emphasized at the Kent Intermediate School District. Career readiness, supported by a purposeful blend of education and industry partnerships, is key. What problems are you solving today? Learning opportunities filled with application and relevance produce great learners!
