Wheeling HS considered a leader in STEM education
Wheeling High School was the only school in the state selected to present at the launching of the Illinois Pathways Initiative Feb. 9 in downstate Bloomington. The initiative helps Illinois residents get better jobs through Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education.
There are about a dozen career pathways currently offered at Wheeling, a comprehensive high school with a STEM focus, and Wheeling was showcased as an example of the possibilities schools can also achieve in career preparation curriculum.
Gov. Pat Quinn and Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon announced the partnership between the business community and public education institutions at the Bloomington conference, held at State Farm Insurance Company’s corporate headquarters before an audience of educators, agency directors and business leaders.
Wheeling High School Principal Lazaro Lopez was introduced, along with two Wheeling alumni and one current student, who were featured presenters: David Greer, Class of 2011, now studying electrical engineering at University of Illinois; Alejandro Barrera, Class of 2011, recently certified as a CNC machinist; and junior Aline Bardack, who was just certified as a Certified Nursing Assistant, along with 11 other students.
STEM Learning Exchanges will form statewide public to private networks in career fields such as health, agriculture, finance, construction, transportation and energy.
Primary, secondary and higher education institutions, employers, industry associations and labor groups will work together to provide resources such as internships and mentoring relationships in each field.
According to Lopez, David Greer was offered an internship “on the spot” by Rich Stephens, senior vice president of human resources and administration of the Boeing Company, following the presentation.
The program is funded through the state’s secured Race to the Top funds. As part of Gov. Quinn’s plan to reform and improve education in Illinois, the Illinois Pathways initiative will provide for strong collaboration in Illinois’ business and education communities, preparing students for jobs in today’s economy and the future.