Corporate Leaders Gather to Discuss the Future of Public Education
By: Reference and Education News
The Technology Access Foundation (TAF), a Seattle-based, national leader in educating underserved children of color in technology and math, has invited corporate leaders from hundreds of Seattle area companies to discuss strategies for preparing students for the 21st century. The Promoting Tools for 21st Century Learning Forum will be held at the University of Washington Center for Urban Horticulture on September 27, 2006, from 8:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. The keynote speaker for this event will be Ken Kay, President of the Partnership for 21st Century Skills and Chairman and Co-founder of Infotech Strategies, Phoenix, AZ.
This forum is the first step in the launch of five public schools in Washington State focusing on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields known as TAF Academy. TAF Academy is a 6th through 12th grade school model emphasizing the preparation of every student for college and for life through a rigorous and relevant STEM focused curriculum that enlists students as active participants in their education while cultivating a keen awareness of their important role within the world. TAF Academy is a unique model that utilizes a rigorous curriculum rooted in project-based learning, a culture of academic achievement, supplemental services, and strong relationships with school districts. TAF plans to launch the first TAF Academy in 2008.
Twenty-first century skills combining technology literacy, critical thinking, creativity and mastery of core subject matter are the lifeblood of a productive workforce in today's global, knowledge-based economy. The Business and Education Communities must work together to bring 21st century skills to every child in America.
"Providing opportunities for students in underserved communities, particularly in the areas of science and math education, will be an essential element in building the talent pipeline necessary for U.S. businesses to thrive in the 21st century. TAF's demonstrated commitment to reaching these communities, building partnerships between schools and businesses, and creating a pipeline of talented, ethical students prepared for university and the workforce, has the potential to have a material and lasting positive impact on our state, residents and businesses," said Sally Jewell, President and CEO of REI and Chair of the UW Board of Regents.
The TAF Academy model presents a unique opportunity for businesses to directly impact public education in ways never before available. Businesses in partnership with TAF have the potential to become architects of the 21st century workforce.
"We're extremely excited about TAF Academy and the opportunity to discuss the model and the critical issue of educating our children with business leaders from the region," said Trish Millines Dziko, Co-founder and Executive Director of TAF. "TAF Academy is a proactive approach to bring education into the 21st century. We found the best educational practices from around the country and incorporated them into a single model that not only educates students but also involves the community, higher education, and businesses."
The TAF Academy model was developed with strong support from area institutions including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Microsoft, and the Paul G. Allen Foundation.
About TAF
TAF prepares underserved children of color for higher education and professional success by providing a rigorous and relevant K-12 curriculum. TAF makes education a priority in underserved communities of color. Serving one child at a time, TAF enhances their educational and professional prospects through the delivery of tools for learning in the 21st century. We will utilize our demonstrable success to establish our leadership in educational reform and expand the reach of our model.
About the Partnership for 21st Century Skills
The Partnership for 21st Century Skills has emerged as the preeminent advocacy organization focusing on infusing 21st century skills into education. The organization brings together the business community, education leaders, and policymakers to define a powerful vision for 21st century education to ensure every child's success as citizens and workers in the 21st century. The Partnership encourages schools, school districts and states to advocate for the infusion of 21st century skills into education and provides tools and resources to help facilitate and drive change. Article Source: http://www.content.onlypunjab.com For online registration, please go to tools21.techaccess.org.
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