Internship

I am wrapping up week 3 of my internship.  I have to say this experience has provided me with some valuable insight into equity and inclusion.  I visited DC Virgo Preparatory Academy with STEM SENC and learned about the development of their school and the progress they have made in just a few years.  I also visited CeSTEM on the campus of UNC-W where I learned about the teacher STEM hub for kits teachers could check out for lessons or STEM nights.  This helps provide equity for students across district lines.

I also spent a virtual Internship week with Alfred Mays, Burroughs Wellcome Fund.  He introduced me to several partners and many BWF award winners.  The information provided was overwhelming but inspirational.  I left this week ready to dive into my asset mapping project.  I would have to say listening to Mr. Flood from the Flood center brought tears to my eyes and made me realize why equity and inclusion should be at the forefront in everything we do.

This week I have connected with STEM West and learned about their asset mapping project that started last year.  I hope to connect the dots that they started and build upon this map to show a reflection of our joined efforts.  I also learned about PBL and how building these with teachers and industry leads to more authentic learning.  I would love to see these units or modules developed further and made available to teachers across the State.

As I wrap up the internship, I am beginning to feel empowered to make a difference and help leverage learning for all by identifying resources in STEM SENC and beyond.