LISD’s S.T.E.M. Program – Dr. Kelly Cichy

 
Kyle Griffith introduced his colleague, Dr. Kelly Cichy, Director of STEM programs for the LISD who spoke on the work she does for the district. STEM initiatives and education, she said, prepares students for the challenges and opportunities in the 21st century economy. As technology becomes more sophisticated the next generation of students must be well-grounded in STEM to succeed. Education in science, Mathematics, Engineering and Technology improves student achievement in all subjects and helps teach problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration skills. The LISD STEM programs promote learning that is hands-on, innovative, cutting-edge, and problem-based. Students focus on real-world challenges that impact their world and to become active participants in their learning, partnering with teachers and community educators as they solve problems and create new solutions. They discover the ability to understand how the world works and apply the understanding to the challenges facing our world.
 
Kelly mentioned several ways in which the LISD promotes STEM careers. One way is through their Project Lead the Way program. In partnership with the LISD, every Public school district in the county has implemented this curriculum. This program promotes and encourages hands-on engineering in middle school as well as high school. 
 
Another way is through the Hillsdale-Lenawee-Monroe Math and Science center. The center serves the tri-county area with a total student population of 52,700. It is a participating member of the Michigan Mathematics and Science Center Network (MMSCN), one of 33 regional Mathematics and Science Centers serving all school districts in the state of Michigan. These Centers provide leadership, curriculum support, professional development, and student services to educators in local school districts. The Centers also serve as a resource clearinghouse for educational materials and information, and work to foster community involvement in the areas of math and science. The MMSCN supports the delivery of high quality of mathematics and science education for the students of Michigan

Yet another way is through LISD Career Exploration Camps which provide opportunities for student growth by providing exceptional hands-on learning for students. In an effort to provide exceptional camp experiences for your children, they have expanded their camps and added new learning opportunities for Lenawee County students ages 5 through 17 years.  The Lenawee Preschool Camps are available to Lenawee County students ages 2 through 5 years.