As Indiana University expands its focus in areas of technology, especially microelectronics, IU’s president, Pamela Whitten, along with Kyla Cox Deckard from the Center of Rural Engagement, Tina Peterson and Michi McClaline from Regional Opportunities Initiative, and other staff members visited Washington High School Monday afternoon to get an update on the Washington School’s system-wide technology offerings and Washington’s partnership with IU. Whitten and the others heard about the cutting-edge STEM and technology programs in the Washington Community Schools and how WHS is one of only a handful of schools to offer students an opportunity for an internship in microelectronics. Tina Peterson of R.O.I. praised Washington and the community for its educational outlook and cooperation.
WHS Principal Brian Holland said that WHS had already been doing things required by the new state diploma requirements. Holland said Washington has already been working with community partners and providing Washington students with real-world preparation. Superintendent Kevin Frank reported how the implementation of Kids at Hope has provided a gateway for Washington students to think about their futures in employment or post-high school enrollment. Washington technology instructors Matt Riney, Patty Allen, and Tamara Delisle talked about the technology offerings and Washington’s highly regarded microelectronics offerings. President Whitten told the group that IU was expanding its focus on microelectronics and its partnership with Crane. Washington’s relationship with IU was emphasized by local elementary administrators Brenda Meredith, Rhiannon Fry, and Kristen Murphy, who all received MBA degrees as part of IU’s Woodrow Wilson Fellowship program. Kyla Cox Deckard of IU’s Center for Rural Engagement had this to say about the Washington partnership
After hearing today’s reports, President Whitten had these comments about the Washington Schools and IU.
