Entry Title: " Challenger Learning Center"
Company: Educational Information and Resource Center , United States
Category: Professional, Other
Designer(s): John Henry


Entry Description:

Description of Project: The Educational Information and Resource Center (EIRC) is currently in the planning stages to construct a Green, Challenger Learning Center (CLC) that will focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. Our educational business plan is three-fold; first, develop educational programs that inspire and hook student interest in the areas of sustainability as well as establish a pipeline for the future workforce in STEM and Green Collar Careers; second, train teachers in the STEM fields in order to better prepare students in the critical global challenges that our planet faces now and will face in the future; third, construct a green building to be used as a teaching tool demonstrating integrated systems.

Statement of Intent: Our intent is to be recognized as a leader in green education appealing to the Generation G or the generation of students that can be taught to grow up green and develop problem solving skills in order to effectively address problems in energy, climate change and other environmental issues. EIRC plans to provide professional development for educators and develop curriculum and programs that will serve as models for replication throughout the country. If awarded, the funds would go towards development of programs and curricular materials and toward the establishment of a network of educators sharing best practices in sustainability education.
The programs will be offered through the EIRC Foundation until the Challenger Learning Center is completed.

Masters degree in Technology Education, Program Director for EIRCs proposed Green Challenger Learning Center for space and science education, 2004 Woodbury High School team-lead for NASA Explorer Schools program, 2004-2005 Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow at NASA Headquarters in Washington DC with the NASA Explorer Schools program, 2002 NJs Technologist of the Year, 2003 Radio Shack National Teacher in Math, Science, and Technology. 2000-2004 Trainer for project InSTEP (Integrating Strategies and Technology in Education Practice) a U.S. Department of Education program featuring Problem Based Learning at NASAs Classroom of the Future, Board Member for the US Green Building Council-NJ Chapter, and Green School Advocate for NJ, Board Member for NJs Mathematics and Science Coalition. Advisory Council Member for the Alliance for NJ Environmental Education (ANJEE), Advisory Council member for Stevens Institute of Technology Engineering our Future NJ, Eisenhower National Clearing House Educator Ambassador, 1981 CPC Solar Energy Research & Development Grant Recipient from the US Department of Energy (DOE).

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