Building a World-Class Education System Norwin STEM Innovation Program for Teaching and Learning
Norwin School District News
The Norwin School District’ s 2016-2017 Education Budget includes science, technology, engineering, and math curricula advancements and builds upon the School District’ s highly successful STEM learning activities. Visual, creative, and performing arts continue to be an integral part of the interdisciplinary approach across the curriculum.
During the past school year, the Administration has transitioned away from a“ Bricks and Mortar” STEM Center concept, which previously called for high school renovations, new classrooms and repurposing of instructional space. Full-scale renovation plans have been delayed due to lack of funding; however, every effort is being made to strategically build a world-class education system.
The Board of Education and Administration have a strong desire“ to meet the challenges of a greatly changed global economy and swiftly evolving digital technologies”( in the words of the NCEE report referenced on Page 36) by making an already great School District an extraordinary School District. As such, the Board of Education and Administration will continue to strengthen educational programming and expand learning opportunities by enhancing an integrated approach to STEM Education through Project-Based Learning.( See box on Page 39) To accomplish these goals, the School District will continue to:
1. Make targeted investments in a robust and dynamic elementary and secondary curricula, educational equipment, and digital technologies
2. Expand the use of the Education Improvement Tax Credit Program( EITC) through the Norwin School District Community Foundation to support student learning opportunities and scholarships
3. Provide additional professional development opportunities for K-12 teachers and administrators
4. Promote business-education partnerships for internships, mentorships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, and specialized STEM Camps with connections to real-world experiences
5. Partner with post-secondary educational institutions to enhance college and career pathways for all students through College in the High School programs and articulation agreements for dual enrollment
6. Expand K-12 STEM-related activities in special education; and explore options to create an Independent Living Program for secondary special education students
7. Explore options for all-day kindergarten and / or reduce primary class size
The School District will expand learning opportunities with continued participation in the United States Navy SeaPerch underwater robotics program, BotsIQ regional competitions, and a partnership with Excela Health’ s STEM Center at its Norwin Hills facility.
Students will have the opportunity during the 2016-2017 school year to begin preparations for a career in Cybersecurity by selecting courses taught at the High School through a partnership with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’ s Pittsburgh Division and the University of Pittsburgh College in High School program. Courses will include Introduction to Information
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Students participate in an Alternative Energy camp this summer at Norwin Middle School. Photo by Matt Mincucci
Science( Advanced); Cybersecurity and the Law; and Computer Security. Dual enrollment will result in 3 earned college credits for respective courses.
Beginning with the 2016-2017 school year, the High School Technology Education Department will implement a nationally recognized Project Lead the Way curricula. Introduction to Engineering and Design will be the first of three courses introduced. The Principles of Engineering and Computer Integrated Manufacturing courses will be offered subsequently in years two and three. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. Students work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3D modeling software and an engineering notebook to document their work. Students have the option of earning college credit through the Rochester Institute of Technology.
The Norwin STEM Innovation Program will be a continuous effort to create a high-tech environment with open work spaces for team building and skill development in critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and creativity. A priority goal continues to be providing learning opportunities for students to be creators, makers, and innovators. The Norwin STEM Innovation program focuses on five major career pathways: Advanced Manufacturing; Biomedical Sciences; Computer Science Engineering; Energy and Engineering; and Aerospace Engineering.
The signature United States Air Force JROTC program at Norwin High School will enter its third year with an expected 130 cadets in grades 9-12. The program continues to develop students’ leadership and character while preparing them with knowledge needed to work in STEM-related fields. Journey into Aviation History, Leadership Laboratory, and Science of Flight and Ground Aviation are among the courses offered. Cadet opportunities include drill competitions, community service learning, scholarship attainment, and leadership development.