Philadelphia Educators to Discuss Innovations in STEM Education

The Free Library of Philadelphia
“Igniting STEM Learning: Inspired Efforts of Teachers" will take place at the Free Library of Philadelphia on October 22

Why is STEM education so important? Engaging students in science, technology, engineering and math education is essential for developing the skills needed to create a globally competitive workforce of tomorrow.

Shining a spotlight on the country’s pressing need for education in STEM-related skills, Drexel University’s School of Education will host the second event in the Critical Conversations in Urban Education lecture series on Monday, October 22, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. A panel of teachers and principals will explore the innovative work of educators in Philadelphia schools, with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering and mathematics education.

The panel discussion, entitled “Igniting STEM Learning: Inspired Efforts of Teachers,” will take place in the Montgomery Auditorium at the Free Library of Philadelphia (1901 Vine Street).

Topics will include the cultivation of life-long STEM learners, the important role of the community in supporting STEM teaching and learning and the urgency of placing STEM education at the forefront of educational initiatives. The event is free and open to the public, and all are welcome to attend. For more information and to register, visit http://soe.drexel.edu/ccue.

The panel, moderated by President of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers Jerry Jordan, will include Kim Ellerbee, principal of Samuel Powel Elementary School; Connie Goochee, science teacher at Woodrow Wilson Middle School; Gamal Sherif, biochemistry teacher at Science Leadership Academy; and Sylvia Simms, founder of Parent Power (a group of parents, caregivers and community members partnering with the School District of Philadelphia to help eliminate the academic achievement gap).

The School of Education’s Critical Conversations in Urban Education lecture series aims to become a vehicle for discussion within the Drexel and Philadelphia communities. It seeks to create a space for dialogue related to a range of education topics in an urban context for a mixed audience. The series provides professional development that augments understanding of factors in preparing educators, and that transforms learning outcomes for urban students.

“The Critical Conversations in Urban Education Lecture Series underscores the importance of strengthening STEM education in schools,” said Dr. Tina Richardson, associate dean for academic affairs at the School of Education. “It invites thoughtful dialogue on the state of education locally, regionally and nationally, with a focus on urban education as a whole.”

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